Rangers Boss Gives Double Injury Update Before Opening Premiership Game

Rangers manager Derek McInnes has eased concerns over Cammy Devlin and Thelo Aasgaard after both midfielders picked up knocks in Sunday's goalless draw with West Ham United.

The pair start Rangers' final pre-season friendly at Ibrox, but neither completed the full match.

Devlin, making his first start since arriving from Hearts, was withdrawn at half-time after taking a kick to his calf.

Aasgaard continued into the second half before landing awkwardly on his shoulder and being replaced by Tochi Chukwuani.

His reaction immediately raised concerns, with Rangers only five days away from beginning their Scottish Premiership campaign at Dundee United.

However, McInnes expects both players to be ready for Friday night. Speaking to RangersTV after the final whistle, he said:

It was an encouraging update at the end of Rangers' final warm-up match. Devlin had impressed after coming off the bench during Wednesday's 2-1 win over Saint-Etienne.

Aasgaard, on the other hand, scored the late winner from the penalty spot against the Ligue 2 side.

The duo's inclusion from the start against Championship opposition gave both players another opportunity to build match sharpness after returning later than most of the squad following their World Cup involvement.

Although Rangers could not find a breakthrough, McInnes praised his side's organisation and aggression.

The Scottish manager was particularly impressed by the Light Blues' first-half performance. 

The Gers limited West Ham and secured a clean sheet while giving valuable minutes to several new arrivals.

McInnes deliberately changed shape at the interval as he balanced tactical preparation with the need to increase fitness across his squad.

Rangers' failure to make the most of several promising positions remains an area to address.

However, avoiding any serious injuries ensures the manager retains his midfield options for the opener.

Dundee United will enter Friday's game with competitive minutes already in their legs. Without European qualification, the Terrors had to go through the group stage of the Premier Sports Cup.

As a result, Dundee have already played four competitive games while Rangers are still stuck in pre-season.

McInnes acknowledged that point after the final whistle on Sunday. Rangers therefore needed this last friendly to sharpen their intensity as well as take the manager's preferred shapes before the points are at stake.

Devlin's energy could make him a contender to start at Tannadice. Aasgaard, on the other hand, offers creativity behind the forwards and a threat from set-pieces.

With Dan Neil and Mohamed Diomande also competing for places, McInnes now faces a selection decision rather than an injury-enforced reshuffle before his competitive bow as Rangers manager.