Hearts squad revealed for Rangers as John Souttar return is important in more ways than one

Hearts boss Robbie Neilson remains without two key defenders for Sunday's clash against champions Rangers.

Michael Smith (back) is waiting for an injection to help banish a back injury that has hampered his season at times.

And Craig Halkett (hamstring) will remain on the sidelines for now.

That makes centre-back John Souttar's availability the big talking point going into this one.

Not only because Rangers fans will be keen to see their future defender in action but also because the depleted Jambos defence could do with his return.

Souttar was replaced against Motherwell by Toby Sibbick at half time last weekend as an ankle injury refuses to go away and sat out the Edinburgh Derby in midweek but medical staff are hopeful he'll be fit for the trip down the M8.

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Neilson is prepared to play him despite the coming move as he told Sky Sports on Friday: "He should be (fit). He's not in training today but he'll be back tomorrow and if he gets through that, he'll be fine.

"I'll be more than happy to play him, he's one of our best players. If John's ready, he'll play."

Craig Gordon

Ross Stewart

Toby Sibbick

Stephen Kingsley

John Souttar

Nathaniel Atkinson

Andy Halliday

Taylor Moore

Alex Cochrane

Finlay