McCulloch set to play in Old Firm derby

Rangers midfielder Lee McCulloch is free to play in the Old Firm derby against Celtic on Wednesday night.

The veteran was given his marching orders for violent conduct in Saturday’s defeat to St Mirren, but the Scottish Football Association will consider an appeal by the club on January 5, which means the former Wigan man is available for selection at Celtic Park.

A statement on the Ibrox club’s website said: “Manager Ally McCoist’s initial reaction was that the decision was harsh and after watching the incident again the club has submitted its appeal to the association.”

“As things stand, McCulloch will be free to play against Celtic in Wednesday’s crucial Old Firm clash at Parkhead although Dorin Goian (who was also dismissed against St Mirren) will be suspended.”

“With the SFA not due to hear the appeal until January 5 at the earliest, the midfielder is also available for the meeting with Motherwell three days earlier.”

Rangers held a 1-0 lead when the Scotland international was shown a straight red, and St Mirren took advantage of the deficit by going on to complete a 2-1 victory, with McCoist left to rue the referee’s decision.

“There is no doubt it changed the game. The ball actually went into the back of the net as well, which a lot of people maybe forget, so it might have been 2-0,” he said.

“I’ve seen it once and I would have to say it was extremely harsh. I’ve had a good chat with Lee McCulloch and he assures me there was no malice at all and he was just trying to fend the boy off. The boy actually had an arm around his waist.”

“I’m a wee bit disappointed with how the boy went down to be honest with you and no physio came on to my knowledge.”

“It changed the game, there is no doubt about it, and we are disappointed with it.”

“Yes I am, but that’s just the referee to be fair. The referee will tell you technically he is right and that’s it.”

“There is nothing I can say on it any more other than he probably could have stayed on the park.”