Rangers early team news v Hibernian: Cerny update shared, another now doubtful
Rangers could have a full-strength squad to choose from for this weekend’s clash with Hibernian at Ibrox.
The Gers are aiming to continue their strong run of form under interim boss Barry Ferguson, who has overseen several impressive results since replacing Philippe Clement.
Despite beating Celtic in the Old Firm, Rangers are far behind in the Scottish Premiership, and their main focus will be on Europe.
Nevertheless, Rangers will hope to beat Hibernian, but there remains a question mark over Vaclav Cerny head of their Europa League quarter-final ties.
Rangers handed injury updates on Cerny and Bailey Rice
Rangers coach Neil McCann has held a press conference ahead of his side’s clash with Hibernian at Ibrox, and has now delivered some key injury updates.
“Vaclav Cerny is still working with the medical department and we are still unsure if we will make it or not,” McCann revealed.
“We are hopeful he will be there as he is making good progress. The rest of the squad is good – Bailey Rice picked up a knock but is doing fine.”
| Stat | Vaclav Cerny |
| Appearances | 44 |
| Goals | 17 |
| Assists | 7 |
Cerny has arguably been Rangers’ best player this season, but missed his side’s win over Dundee with a hamstring issue.
Rice played for 45 minutes in the victory at Dundee, but the 18-year-old could now miss out with the knock he has picked up.
Rangers need Cerny to regain full fitness
Whilst facing Hibernian without Cerny is not the end of the world, the 27-year-old is running out of time to build up fitness and momentum for the Europa League.
Rangers will face Athletic Club on the 10th and 17th April, and the Basque side will provide strong opposition in the Gers’ final opportunity for silverware this season.
Ideally, Cerny would return imminently to face Hibernian in some sort of capacity, even off the bench, to be ready to start against the Spaniards.
However, if Cerny is to miss the Hibs clash, it seems unlikely that he will be ready to return straight to the starting XI fresh from his injury in such a vital game at Ibrox.
Cerny has scored 17 goals this season, and it will be a huge blow for Ferguson if he is to miss the Europa League quarter-finals, with Rangers’ season riding on progress in Europe.