Beano' out

Last updated : 19 January 2004 By Mark O' Haire

The young midfielder hobbled off during the first half of the game against Brighton and now faces an anxious wait before discovering the extent of the injury.

If the damage is serious he could face up to six weeks on the sidelines - a real blow to Ian Holloway with the 19-year-old now establishing himself as an important cog in Rangers' midfield engine.

Nevertheless, Holloway will at least be heartened by the performance of the returning Matthew Rose, who slotted comfortably back in to the side on Saturday, and the arrival of Dean Marney - an exciting youngster who gives Rangers plenty of options.

Ollie will also be pleased to see the injury picture elsewhere brightening considerably.

Clarke Carlisle will be fit for tomorrow's game at Southend despite taking a painful blow to the elbow and the remainder of Rangers' walking wounded are making excellent progress.

Tony Thorpe is sprinting again after shaking off his calf injury and could well be in the frame for a place in next Saturday's squad - a week earlier than originally anticipated.

Kevin McLeod could also feature having made good progress in his recovery from a hamstring injury. The left winger is pain-free and has a 50/50 chance of being ready for the trip to Bournemouth.

Meanwhile Gareth Ainsworth is out of his 'air-cast' boot and remains on course to return in time for Rangers' next home game, against Notts County on February 7th.

Elsewhere, Richard Edghill continues to make good progress and he too should beack in training within two to three weeks.

Ollie will now ponder his options for the game at Roots Hall tomorrow and will look to put out his strongest possible side with Rangers now just two ties away from a trip to Cardiff.

Therefore, retaining Saturday's starting XI - with either Steve Palmer or Dean Marney replacing the injured Bean - would appear to be the most likely choice.

Southend themselves will be desperate for a result after missing out on a money-spinning FA Cup tie against Chelsea following defeat in their Third Round replay at Scarborough.

Saturday's 2-0 home defeat at the hands of Doncaster was another disappointment, leaving the Essex club in 22nd place in Division Three and in dire need of some January cheer.