Rangers injury latest on Malik Tillman, John Lundstram and Ryan Jack amid 'optimistic' update ahead of Celtic showdown

Michael Beale believes the lure of a Scottish League Cup Final showdown with Celtic can inspire his three Rangers big guns to make injury returns.

The Light Blues boss admitted a 3-0 win over Livingston handed his side the perfect preparation for next Sunday's Hampdenclash with the absent Malik Tillman, John Lundstram and Ryan Jack all rated doubts. Rangers remain nine points behind leaders Celtic after James Tavernier's double and a Kemar Roofe strike secured a ninth straight win against the ten man Lions who had Stephane Omeonga red carded.

But with the clock ticking down towards the chance for Beale to lift his first trophy as boss, the Englishman is praying his missing trio can climb off the treatment table in time to face the Hoops. He said: “They are big doubts because they were not available today. But cup finals do strange things and people find it within their body for a game like that. Malik has a problem with his hamstring, Jacko has a problem with his calf and John with his ankle.

“I’m optimistic they will return to training at the back end of the week with Scott Arfield. But, it will be touch and go. What we had today might be what we have and I was delighted with what we got today from the players. I have had to take a few deep breaths when other players have gone down injured this week.

"But you have to trust your next group of players. Everything I needed to see today I saw. Of course it is a worry when you don't have players available. But that is why you try to build a strong squad. That Is now six away games on the bounce we have won and that shows a lot of character.

"A lot of people would have looked at the game today and thought that run might end. But we have won 3-0. We will now wrap the boys up