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Daily Record
Daily Record
Sport
Gavin Berry

Filip Helander set for Rangers return from injury as Ianis Hagi comeback timeline revealed

Filip Helander is set to make his long-awaited return from injury in Saturday’s Scottish Cup trip to Annan Athletic.

And Rangers had a further boost as Leon Balogun’s injury suffered against Hibs isn’t as bad as first feared.

But Giovanni van Bronckhorst revealed Ianis Hagi is likely to miss the start of next season as he starts his rehabilitation.

The Light Blues travel to Galabank for their fifth round tie and Helander is in line for a first appearance since suffering a knee injury in September.

Aaron Ramsey could make his first start but Ryan Jack will only return to training over the weekend.

Van Bronckhorst said: “Filip Helander has been training for a few weeks and will be involved tomorrow. I am really happy for him after a spell out.

“Leon Balogun had a scan and it was very positive. It wasn’t as bad as we first thought. Ryan Jack will return to training this weekend.

Aaron Ramsey is fit to start. He is getting better and fresher every day. We are travelling with a big squad, a few youngsters will travel also and hopefully they can feature during the game.

“Ianis Hagi is likely to miss the start of the season. Hopefully his recover will go smoothly.”

Gers have’t won the trophy since 2009 and Van Bronckhorst has his eyes on the prize.

He said: “We want to compete in every competition, including the Scottish Cup. Our aim is always to win the cup.

“I have the most players available since joining the club plus the good additions from the January window.

“You will see changes tomorrow but our way of playing will remain the same. It is good to give other player minutes.

Gio van Bronckhorst will mix up squad for Annan game (SNS Group)

“There will be no complacency from our side. We have to respect our opponent and play to our level

“For me, it doesn’t matter the size of the stadium or the surface. We have to be focused on getting into the next round.”

Meanwhile, after another midweek of officials being under the spotlight the Dutchman reiterated his support for VAR.

He said: “I am very pro-VAR. I think it will make the game easier for the referee with an extra pair of eyes and the chance to watch back important moments of the match.

“Hopefully, we will have it for next season but for now it is the same for everyone and we have to deal with it.”

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