Scottish Football: Newcomers face intense beginning
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.DERBY DAY is turning into debut day as Dundee and Hearts parade their latest signings while Rangers consider whether or not to risk Duncan Ferguson against Celtic.
Dundee, who paid pounds 500,000, double the previous club record, to capture Eintracht Frankfurt's Polish midfielder Dariusz Adamczuk, will blood him against Aberdeen at Dens Park.
Hearts, who paid Hamilton pounds 300,000 on Monday for Jim Weir, are ready to let the centre-half take his chance against Hibernian as they try to stretch their unbeaten derby run to 18 games.
Hibernian have signed the Northern Irish international Michael O'Neill from Dundee United for pounds 245,000 and they include him in their squad. Gareth Evans returns after a three-match suspension.
However, the main focus on attention will be on Parkhead, where Rangers will make a late decision on whether Duncan Ferguson, Britain's most expensive player, will play against Celtic. Ferguson, who has not played since 4 April, came through a closed-doors match against St Mirren on Tuesday, but Rangers' plans for him are a secret.
Defender Dave McPherson, recovering from an operation, also played, and the Rangers manager Walter Smith said: 'I'm pleased they have both got a game under their belts. The final selection will be mine and it won't be announced until 2.30.'
Mark Hateley, missing against St Johnstone last week, and Ian Ferguson, who was carried off injured, are expected to be fit. Celtic have Stuart Slater, Charlie Nicholas and Frank McAvennie nursing injuries.
Celtic will slip four points behind Rangers after three Saturdays if they lose but Nicholas insisted: 'I don't think it's as vital as people make out.'
Dundee, with only one goal and no points from their opening two games, hope that Adamczuk will help them get off the mark against an Aberdeen side who hope to have Mixu Paatelainen fit after injury.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments