Rangers’ winter recruit poised for big impact against Hearts with latest injury update

Midfielder Tochi Chukwuani will be encouraged by the latest update emerging from Tynecastle as Rangers prepare for a potentially decisive Premiership showdown against Hearts at Ibrox this weekend.

The Glasgow side host Hearts in a fixture that could significantly shape the destination of the league title. With only five points separating the two teams at the summit, the stakes could hardly be higher. Should Hearts manager Danny Rohl guide his team to victory in Glasgow, the gap would shrink to just two points, intensifying the pressure in the closing stretch of the campaign.

For Rangers to seize control of the contest, Chukwuani will need to deliver a commanding performance in midfield. The Danish midfielder has quickly become an integral figure since his arrival, and the absence of a key Hearts player could further enhance his influence on proceedings.

Devlin blow weakens Hearts midfield

Hearts have exceeded expectations this season, capitalising in part on inconsistent form from both Rangers and Celtic. While the Edinburgh side have impressed with their resilience and organisation, Rangers appear the most likely challengers to reel them in as the title race tightens.

A significant development ahead of the weekend clash is the continued absence of Cameron Devlin. The Australian midfielder is ruled out, dealing a setback to Hearts’ engine room. Devlin, 27, played a pivotal role in the previous meeting between the sides in December, where his tenacity and work rate helped tip the balance in midfield.

That earlier encounter came at a time when Rangers lacked bite and physical presence in the centre of the park. Since then, however, the landscape has shifted. The arrival of Chukwuani during the winter transfer window has added steel, composure, and athleticism to the Rangers midfield. His ability to break up play and transition quickly from defence to attack has injected fresh energy into the side.

While Chukwuani did not reach his usual standards in the recent outing against Motherwell, the upcoming contest presents an ideal opportunity for him to reassert his authority. Facing a Hearts midfield deprived of Devlin’s dynamism could allow him greater freedom to dictate tempo and impose himself physically.

Rangers managing their own injury concerns

Despite the boost provided by Devlin’s absence, Rangers are not without their own selection headaches. Manager Danny Rohl continues to navigate a series of injury setbacks within his squad.

Connor Barron remains unavailable after sustaining a knee injury at the beginning of January. His absence has limited options in midfield rotation, though Chukwuani’s presence has softened that blow to some extent.

Defensively and in wide areas, Rangers are also stretched. Derek Cornelius and Bailey Rice are sidelined, while Max Aarons’ situation is becoming increasingly concerning. Aarons has featured 17 times in the Scottish Premiership this season and has been a consistent contributor down the flank. Initially thought to be a minor issue, his injury is now raising fears of a more prolonged spell on the sidelines.

Among the absentees, Aarons arguably represents the most significant loss given his regular involvement and attacking support from full-back. His ability to overlap and deliver width has been an important component of Rangers’ build-up play. Without him, adjustments may be required both tactically and in terms of personnel.

Title implications at Ibrox

With the championship race finely poised, the encounter at Ibrox carries enormous significance. A Rangers victory would not only close the gap but also deliver a psychological statement to their rivals. Conversely, a Hearts triumph would reinforce their credentials as genuine contenders and tighten their grip at the top.

The midfield battle is likely to prove decisive. Devlin’s absence removes a combative presence that disrupted Rangers in the reverse fixture. This time around, Chukwuani will aim to exploit that void, using his strength and positional awareness to control central areas.

The transformation of Rangers’ midfield since the Dane’s arrival has been notable. Greater balance and intensity have allowed the team to compete more effectively in high-stakes matches. If Chukwuani can return to his peak form, Rangers may find themselves well positioned to capitalise on Hearts’ weakened lineup.

As anticipation builds for what could be the defining fixture of the campaign, both sides understand the magnitude of the occasion. For Rangers, it represents a chance to reignite their title charge. For Hearts, it is an opportunity to underline their progress and resilience.

All eyes will be on Ibrox as two of Scotland’s top sides collide in a contest that could reshape the Premiership standings.