Miller doubtful for Hearts clash

Kenny Miller’s calf injury may force him to miss a third match after Rangers manager Walter Smith admitted he is doubtful for Saturday’s clash with Hearts.

However, Sasa Papac and Madjid Bougherra are set to return following a two-game absence and Smith has allayed fears over Kris Boyd’s fitness.

Miller missed Saturday’s 2-0 win over Aberdeen after pulling out of Scotland’s friendly against Argentina.

He will receive treatment this week to ease the swelling on his calf after taking a kick during the 2-1 win over St Mirren.

Papac is set to return from a head injury and Boyd is expected to recover from the knock he received against the Dons.

The return of defenders Papac and Bougherra will be a big boost to Rangers as they travel to Tynecastle to face a Hearts side who have won four Clydesdale Bank Premier League games in succession.

Smith told www.rangersfc.co.uk: “I think Sasa will be fit for the game and I’m quite certain that Kris Boyd, who came off injured on Saturday, will be okay.

“I’m also fairly hopeful that Madjid Bougherra, who has struggled with a calf strain over the last few weeks, will come in again too.

“Kenny Miller has taken a nasty knock to his calf and that’s one of those we’ll have to take care of. We hope he’ll be able to play for us this weekend but I’d say at the moment that he’s a little bit doubtful.”