
Joe Rothwell to get second chance after Steven Smith confirms new Rangers injury
Rangers return to Scottish Premiership action against Dundee United on Saturday, but Steven Smith will not have a full squad to choose from.
The mood at Ibrox will certainly change following Russell Martin’s sacking by Rangers chiefs, as the Bears now look to rebuild their season following a disastrous start.
Whilst Kevin Muscat’s arrival at Rangers nears, stand-in boss Smith will take interim charge on Saturday.
Smith addressed the media at Auchenhowie on Friday, confirming one new injury that could benefit Joe Rothwell.

Mohamed Diomande confirmed out for Rangers vs Dundee United
Joe Rothwell has struggled since joining Rangers from Bournemouth in the summer, yet following Martin’s departure, he could be primed for more minutes on the pitch.
In Friday’s press conference, Smith said: “Mohammed Diomande is the only one from the Falkirk game who will be out for tomorrow’s game.”
After being given the nod in Rangers’ last match, Diomande was expected to start in Smith’s first game in charge.
Joe Rothwell | |
Appearances | 7 |
Minutes played | 329 |
Pass accuracy (percentage) | 90.3 |
Duels won (percentage) | 53.8 |
Whilst the extent of the injury is unclear, Rothwell is now the favourite to play, and it’s a great chance for him to prove himself in front of the Ibrox faithful.
Rothwell has been criticised several times this season, and was booed onto the pitch after replacing Connor Barron in the 2-0 defeat to Hearts on 13 September.
Saturday’s match against Dundee United is a huge opportunity for Rothwell to stamp his authority on the starting lineup, yet the 30-year-old may need some guidance from his midfield partner.

With Rothwell out of form this season, Barron will have to be at the top of his game against Dundee United.
Connor Barron has huge task on his hands
Barron will almost definitely be named in Smith’s starting lineup on Saturday as the Bears look to secure their first home win in the Scottish Premiership this season.
Having joined Rangers from Aberdeen in 2024, Barron made 46 appearances in all competitions for the Light Blues last campaign and excelled in the holding midfield role.
Alongside Rothwell, Barron will have to take control of the midfield and showcase his quality on the ball.
Light Blues supporters are extremely fond of Barron’s influence on the team, and his confidence on the ball could have a huge effect on how Rothwell plays on Saturday.
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