Lee McCulloch available for Old Firm derby

Lee McCulloch is free to play in Wednesday's Old Firm derby after Glasgow Rangers confirmed that they have appealed the red card he was handed on Christmas Eve.

The veteran midfielder was given his marching orders following a clash with Graham Carey during his side's 2-1 loss to St Mirren.

Rangers boss Ally McCoist revealed at the time that the club was likely to appeal the verdict, a decision which means that the 33-year-old can face Celtic later this week.

"Manager Ally McCoist's initial reaction was that the decision was harsh and after watching the incident again the club has submitted its appeal to the association," read a statement on the club's official website.

"As things stand, McCulloch will be free to play against Celtic in Wednesday's crucial Old Firm clash at Parkhead although Dorin Goian will be suspended.

"With the SFA not due to hear the appeal until January 5 at the earliest, the midfielder is also available for the meeting with Motherwell three days earlier."

McCulloch joined Rangers in 2007 from Wigan Athletic.