Ferguson may defy injury to play in Cup semi-final

Barry Ferguson, the Rangers captain, may not have to take painkillers to be ready for the Tennent's Scottish Cup semi-final against Motherwell on Saturday.

The Scotland international has been struggling with a pelvic problem this season, which will require an operation. But the 25-year-old has been helped by a lack of competitive action due to suspension in recent weeks.

Ferguson said: "We'll see how training goes on Friday before taking a decision on whether I need a jab again but, hopefully, I'll be all right.

"I always train with the boys on a Friday before a game – that's been the programme for me in the past few weeks. The fitness is all right. I should be fine for Motherwell and I'm looking forward to getting back into action after the wee break because of my suspension."

* The Scottish Football Association has switched the venue of the Under-21 international friendly against Austria on 29 April to Dens Park, Dundee, after concerns about Dundee United's Tannadice Park pitch, which was heavily sanded for the televised Premier League game between United and Rangers last Sunday.