Scottish Football: Dons turn to Snelders

ABERDEEN are expected to restore Theo Snelders, their Dutch international goalkeeper, to their line-up for the crucial Premier Division encounter with Rangers at Ibrox today.

It is four weeks since Snelders suffered a badly bruised shoulder when his team-mate, Brian Grant, fell on top of him. The Dutchman is not fully fit, but his manager, Willie Miller, is expected to thrust him back into the limelight for a game the Dons must win if they are to retain a realistic chance of the title.

Derek Stillie has done well in Snelders' absence, but Aberdeen have not won at Ibrox in Miller's two years in charge, and experience is of paramount importance in Rangers' fortress. 'You have to blood players properly.' Miller said. 'This is a big occasion, a big stage, and I have to make the right decision.' The 19- year-old full back, Hugh Robertson, may also step down.

Rangers lead by five points from Motherwell, and by seven from Aberdeen. David Robertson is set to return for the Ibrox side after missing two games with a hamstring problem, but Trevor Steven damaged his groin against Partick Thistle in midweek and is ruled out. Motherwell, who entertain Partick, await fitness verdicts on Dougie Arnott and Tommy Coyne.