Andy Webster will miss Dundee United's Clydesdale Bank Premier League clash with Rangers on Sunday under the terms of his loan move from the Scottish champions.
Garry Kenneth will therefore start alongside Darren Dods at the heart of defence, which could once again be protecting player-coach Steve Banks, with goalkeeper Nicky Weaver still struggling with a thigh strain.
Long-term injury absentees Jon Daly (knee), Francisco Sandaza (groin), Kevin Smith (ankle), Lee Wilkie (knee) and Scott Robertson (groin) are all missing.
Madjid Bougherra has been ruled out for Rangers and is doubtful for next week's crucial Champions League tie with Unirea Urziceni.
The centre-half has been out of action with a knee injury picked up after a late return from international duty saw him miss the win at St Johnstone earlier this month.
Lee McCulloch missed training today and is still rated doubtful with a thigh strain. Kirk Broadfoot has returned to training after recovering from a foot injury but the weekend action is likely to come too soon.
Teams:
Dundee United (from): Weaver, Dods, Kenneth, Dillon, Kovacevic, Fotheringham, McCord, Myrie-Williams, Swanson, Buaben, Gomis, Conway, D Robertson, Cadamarteri, Goodwillie, Shala, Casalinuovo, Banks.
Rangers (from): McGregor, Whittaker, Papac, Weir, Smith, Davis, Fleck, Naismith, Lafferty, Miller, Novo, Boyd, Beasley, Loy, Wilson, Rothen, Thomson, Alexander