Derek McInnes is expected to be in the Rangers dugout for Friday night’s Scottish Premiership opener against Dundee United, despite being handed a four-match Scottish FA ban last week. The match will mark his first competitive fixture since taking charge at Ibrox.
The situation has drawn attention because the suspension appeared to put his touchline involvement in doubt. Even so, McInnes is set to be on the bench as Rangers begin their new league campaign away from home in a high-profile game being shown live on Sky Sports.
It is an important start for both McInnes and Rangers after the club finished third in the top flight last season. Supporters will be watching closely to see how the new manager sets up his side and whether Rangers can open the season with a strong result.
With the focus on the dugout as well as the pitch, the Dundee United clash now carries added interest. McInnes’ expected presence for the opener gives Rangers a notable talking point before a new Premiership season gets under way.