BUT IN
Rangers keeper Jack Butland spotted wearing special leg protector as he bids to make big comeback for Man Utd clash
Another key star also returned to training
JACK BUTLAND is gearing up to make his return to the pitch after being sidelined the last few weeks after spending Hogmanay in hospital.
The Rangers stopper, 30, was kept in overnight for observation with an internal bleed on his thigh which ruled out him out of the derby against Celtic and five other matches since.
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But he returned to training last week and was spotted at Auchenhowie again today getting involved in the action ahead of Thursday's Europa League showdown against his old club Manchester United.
And pictures from this afternoon's training session appears to show the goalie wearing protective padding on his right thigh.
The 30-year-old looked in good shape on the training turf and could be set to make a stunning return between the sticks at Old Trafford.
The Rangers doctor kept a close eye on him during his warm up but there didn't seem to be any causes for concern.
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He trained alongside fellow first team keepers Liam Kelly and Mason Munn.
Former Motherwell man Kelly, 28, has filled in for Butland during his time out and kept a clean sheet in his first Old Firm clash on January 2.
He replaced the Englishman between the sticks 10 days earlier against Dundee when he dramatically left Ibrox to be with his partner while she gave birth.
Kelly then featured against Hibs, Dundee again, St Johnstone and Dundee, while Munn took the gloves for the Scottish Cup win over Fraserburgh.
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Meanwhile, Butland getting down to work wasn't the only positive sign for Philippe Clement at Auchenhowie.
He also welcomed back Tom Lawrence to the fold who hasn't played since October.
Another former Man Utd star similar to Butland, the midfielder would have been hoping to feature against his old team at Old Trafford.
But Thursday's match will likely come too soon for the Welshman.
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