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Smith handed midfield boost
Rangers, 14:16, January 18, 2010 ,
Pedro Mendes has returned to full training after a long-term absence and could be back in the squad to face Hearts this weekend.
The former Portsmouth and Tottenham man has been sidelined since October 20 after picking up a serious knee injury during the Champions League home defeat to Unirea Urziceni.
But, after making good progress in recent weeks, Mendes is back on the training ground although the midweek Scottish Cup replay will come too soon for a return to action.
The Gers are hoping the midfielder could take part in a closed-doors game with Dunfermline later this week, before coming into contention for the home clash with Hearts on Saturday.
Walter Smith revealed to the club's website: "Pedro is back in with us again and I would hope he'll be fit for the weekend, maybe as a substitute."