Rangers are sweating over the fitness of John Souttar and Hamza Igmane after the pair picked up knocks in their 1-1 draw with Tottenham on Thursday night.
With the League Cup Final against Celtic looming this weekend, the potential absence of two key players would be a significant blow to Philippe Clement’s side.
The clash with Spurs, somehow hyped up as the Battle of Britain despite it being 11th in England vs. 3rd in Scotland, proved to be a tough test for the visitors.
Despite probably being the better side, Clement’s men settled for a draw after taking the league only for Postrecoglou’s side to find the back of the net and push for another in the last 15.
John Souttar was forced off midway through the first half after sustaining a knock. The Scotland international has been a key figure in the Rangers defence, and his potential absence leaves a gaping hole in their backline. It will likely see Propper and Balogun start at Hampden, if Souttar is ruled out.
Adding to the woes, Hamza Igmane, who scored Rangers’ goal against Spurs, also appeared to be in discomfort. The forward was substituted with ten minutes remaining, sparking fears from the Ibrox camp that he too could miss out on the final. Igmane has been a bright spot for Rangers this season, offering pace, the ability to run at a man, and an eye for goal.
Speaking after the match, Philippe Clement acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding the injuries, admitting that the full extent of the damage was still unknown:
“I cannot say anything for the moment; it’s too close after the game. I wish I could because that would ease my mind towards tomorrow, but it’s not the case. We will see in the next two days how it is with them.”
While Rangers grapple with injury concerns, Brendan Rodgers’ Celtic side comes into the final in fine form results wise and relatively free of major injuries. The Hoops are riding a 30-game domestic unbeaten streak and will look to exploit any weaknesses in the Rangers’ lineup.
With both clubs locked on 118 trophies each, Sunday’s clash at Hampden Park carries even more weight. The League Cup Final offers an opportunity for either side to claim early-season silverware and bragging rights in Scottish football’s fiercest rivalry.
