Ibrox boss Walter Smith reckons at least three of his four “short-term” crocks will be fit for the showdown.

Defenders Madjid Bougherra and Sasa Papac, who both missed the wins over St Mirren and Aberdeen, are almost certain to return, while striker Kris Boyd should also recover after limping off against the Dons last weekend.

Smith’s only concern is striker Kenny Miller, who has missed both club and country fixtures in the past week and is still feeling some discomfort with a calf problem, although he hasn’t yet been ruled out of the trip to Edinburgh.

With midfielders Kevin Thomson and Steven Davis absent because of injury and personal reasons, being able to call on his other first-team regulars would be a bonus for Smith as he tries to make up ground on league leaders Celtic.

He said: “I know Sasa and Kris will be fine and I’m also hopeful Madjid will make it by Saturday.

“My only doubt is Kenny as he took a nasty knock to the calf and our medical people are still working on him.”