Injury blow for Rangers? Four stars at risk for Celtic clash as Rohl confirms ‘serious injury’ issue

Rangers F.C. are gearing up for what could be their defining match of the season as they welcome city rivals Celtic F.C. to Ibrox this weekend, with both clubs chasing down Heart of Midlothian F.C. in the Scottish Premiership title race.

Danny Rohl’s side currently trail Hearts by four points but sit two clear of Celtic, who hold a game in hand. The picture at the top could shift dramatically depending on Sunday’s outcome. A victory for the Gers would move them five points ahead of their rivals, provided results elsewhere go in their favour.

The last Old Firm meeting in January saw Youssef Chermiti score twice to hand Rangers a crucial win. The striker is expected to be available again, but Rohl has several injury concerns to manage ahead of the clash.

Dujon Sterling a major doubt

Dujon Sterling is one of the biggest worries. The 26-year-old missed the recent draw with Livingston and is considered a serious doubt for Sunday’s showdown.

Ryan Naderi also struggled for fitness last week after missing training on the Friday before the Livingston match, though he was fit enough to make a substitute appearance.

Providing an update, Rohl explained:
“Dujon’s a small injury and Ryan couldn’t train during the week. I think this is then, yeah, also a decision from my side. When you cannot train during the week, then you have not the rhythm.”

Trio unlikely to return

Bailey Rice, Derek Cornelius and Connor Barron are also not expected to feature, although there has been some progress.

Cornelius has returned to training after undergoing surgery in November, but it would be a surprise if he were immediately thrown into such a high-intensity fixture. His comeback appears more likely in the coming weeks.

Rice was described by Rohl in January as a long-term absentee, suggesting he may still be several weeks away from action.

Barron, who was initially ruled out for around three months at the start of January, could be targeting a return in early April.

With so much riding on the derby, Rohl will be hoping at least one or two of his injury concerns clear up before kick-off.