Ferguson back in Rangers squad

Barry Ferguson made a dramatic return to the Rangers squad for their crucial Clydesdale Bank Premier League game against Aberdeen.

The midfielder was named as a substitute for the first time since being stripped of the captaincy and banned for a fortnight by the club for his part in the ’Boozegate’ affair.

The deposed skipper was initially thought to be out for the season after suffering a calf tear in a reserve match but could now have a part to play in the remaining two games.

Boss Walter Smith made three changes from the side who were held to a 1-1 draw at Hibernian midweek, with Sasa Papac and Kenny Miller back from injury and Kyle Lafferty also in the starting line-up.

Christian Dailly was relegated to the bench, Steven Smith dropped out of the 18-man squad and Andrius Velicka missed the match through illness.

Aberdeen made two changes following their goalless draw with Hearts: Mark Kerr returned from suspension to start along with Peter Pawlett in place of the injured Jamie Smith and Chris Maguire, who was named on the bench.