Bougherra free to aid Rangers´ title push

Algeria defender Madjid Bougherra is free to play in Rangers’ title decider at Dundee United after his red card against Aberdeen was downgraded to a yellow by a Scottish Football Association review panel on Friday.

Bougherra was sent off for a high challenge on Dons keeper Jamie Langfield during last week’s 2-1 win at Ibrox.

But the SFA ruling means he is now available to play at Tannadice on Sunday because referee Stuart Dougal asked the panel to review his decision.

Rangers are two points clear of Glasgow rivals Celtic going into the final weekend of the season and victory over United would secure their first Scottish Premier League title in four years.

Aberdeen’s appeal against the dismissal of Charlie Mulgrew in the same game was also successful. The former Celtic player had his red card reduced to a yellow and will be free to play against Hibernian at Pittodrie.

Meanwhile, Celtic defender Glenn Loovens will also face the disciplinary committee as will Celtic’s Australian striker Scott McDonald.

Loovens was reported to the panel over a challenge on Rangers midfielder Maurice Edu during the Old Firm derby at Ibrox on May 9.

McDonald was referred by Dougal after the referee examined TV footage of his tackle on Dundee United defender Lee Wilkie three days later.

The disciplinary committee will not meet until the end of the season and any potential suspension would take effect next season. Both players will be free to face Hearts on Sunday.