McInnes Discusses Ibrox Visit and Injury Updates

McInnes Discusses Ibrox Visit and Injury Updates

Derek McInnes, the manager of Hearts, expressed confidence ahead of their upcoming match against Rangers at Ibrox. The game is scheduled for Sunday evening and will be shown on Sky Sports. McInnes believes that the Jambos’ prior successes against Rangers will serve as motivation.

Confidence from Previous Matches

McInnes highlighted the significance of Hearts’ victory over Rangers in September. He acknowledged that their historically poor record at Ibrox had been a point of concern. However, the recent win has boosted the team’s morale.

“It’s a good reference for us,” McInnes stated during the pre-match press conference. He noted the competitiveness of Rangers but believes Hearts can perform well against them.

Rangers’ Strong Squad

McInnes remarked on Rangers’ recruitment strategy. He noted that they strengthened key positions and invested significantly. This, he warned, makes the upcoming match a challenging encounter.

Injury Updates

In terms of team news, Craig Halkett is set to return after serving a suspension. Unfortunately, Stephen Kingsley will miss more time due to a calf injury. McInnes provided the following updates:

  • Craig Halkett: Returning from suspension.
  • Stephen Kingsley: Expected to be sidelined for approximately five weeks.
  • Cammy: Touch and go for the Aberdeen match at the end of the month.
  • Lawrence: Likely to return the last week of March.

Hearts will only have two league matches in March. This allows some players time for recovery, which is integral for their upcoming fixtures.

Looking Ahead

McInnes remains optimistic that past performances can inspire his team. He understands the need to maintain a positive narrative within the squad. If players perform effectively, they could secure another significant victory.

Fans can follow the full press conference on Hearts TV for a deeper insight into McInnes’s strategies and team updates.