Van Bronckhorst unlikely to make Gers start

Giovanni van Bronckhorst admits it is unlikely he will be part of the Rangers squad to face Dundee United.

The Ibrox midfielder had hoped to make his return from a groin injury against the Tannadice side, after his previous comeback at the beginning of March was ruined when a collision with Hearts midfielder Colin Cameron meant he had to be replaced after just 23 minutes.

But the Dutchman claims that seven months spent on the sidelines means that he needs more games before he contemplates another first team return.

He told the www.icons.com website: "Unfortunately, it doesn't look very likely that I will be able to play against Dundee United on Saturday.

"The training has been going well, and I'm feeling okay, but you have to remember I've been out for seven months.

"It takes a long time to get back to the required level, so I really need a bit more match practice at a lower level first."

His injury means that van Bronckhorst has also missed out on international action with the Holland squad.

And, although he misses turning out for the Dutch side, he insists that the Ibrox club remains his top priority.

He added: "It's also a shame to be out of the Dutch set-up at the moment. Having said that, Rangers still come first.

"The club is always the most important thing for me. It's an honour to play for your country, but that comes from playing well for your club - the people who pay your wages, and the supporters that come through the turnstiles to watch you."

With just a one-point cushion over St Mirren at the bottom of the table, Dundee United will be determined to leave Ibrox with a win.

David Hannah is suspended and Hugh Davidson could miss out after picking up an ankle knock.

But Craig Easton has shrugged off a strain picked up while on duty with the Scotland Under-21 squad and he should be able to take part.