Breaking News:Manager confirms ex-Premier League hitman is ‘available’ to make debut against Rangers

Breaking News:Manager confirms ex-Premier League hitman is ‘available’ to make debut against Rangers

Rangers have the small matter of a Europa League clash with Malmo before they can focus on the Scottish Premiership visit of Hibs.

 

But the Edinburgh club’s new manager David Gray has been out facing the Sky Sports cameras after weeks without a game at Easter Road.

Courtesy of the Hibees’ League Cup exit at the hands of Celtic, by the time Hibs kick a ball at Ibrox it’ll have been 22 days since their 2-0 victory over 10-man St Johnstone.

 

And as Rangers’ full focus is on the clash in Sweden, Gray has confirmed that the a former Premier League hitman is in line to make his Hibs debut at Ibrox.

 

READ MORE: ‘Special’ Rangers talent in line to make Europa League debut

Dwight Gayle in line to make debut v Rangers

Many felt Rangers could add to their squad after the transfer window slammed shut.

Indeed, Dutch midfielder Davy Klaassen was reportedly an Ibrox target before he returned to Ajax during the international break.

 

But it was Scottish Premiership rivals Hibs who’ve been busy in the free-agent market, securing the head-turning acquisition of Dwight Gayle.

 

Rangers fans will know Dwight Gayle from his time tearing up the English Premier League and Championship.

The now 34-year-old striker is most remembered for his time with Crystal Palace and then Newcastle United, with Hibs picking the hitman up after spells with Stoke City and most recently Derby County.

 

Speaking to Sky Sports after Hibs signed Gayle down on a short-term contract until the end of the season, Gray confirmed the striker is in line to play at Ibrox.

“You’ve seen that straight away with how professional he is.

 

“He’s looked after himself very well and he’s been a great addition so far.

 

“I’m looking forward to working with him.”

 

Hibs manager backing Rangers in Europa League

David Gray has also been speaking about the challenge of Rangers as the Ibrox side focus on that Europa League opener v Malmo.

 

Insisting that the trip to Ibrox will be ‘tough test’ of his underperforming side’s credentials, Gray is looking to add to his first win as Hibs boss in Glasgow.

The Hibs manager has also sent his support to Rangers ahead of the clash in Malmo, sending the Ibrox side the best of luck as they fly the coefficient flag in Sweden.

 

“A real tough test,” Gray said. “It’s a great place to go and play football.

 

“It’ll be a real tough day. They’re off the back of a good win at home last week as well.

 

“It should be a good game and one we’re looking forward to.”

When asked about how the clash against Malmo will affect Hibs’ preparations, Gray said: “The only thing that can affect it is if they were to pick up injuries within the game.

 

“But at the same time we’re fully focused on what we’re going to do.

 

“We wish them all the best because you want the Scottish teams to do well in Europe so best of luck to them for that.

 

“But we’re obviously going to be watching the game closely to make sure we can go there and give ourselves the best chance.”