View: Rangers star's absence may be blessing in disguise vs St Mirren after what's seen at Ibrox

Rangers will be without Mohamed Diomande against St Mirren in the William Hill Premiership on Sunday.

Danny Rohl has confirmed that the Cote d’Ivoire international isn’t available to face the Buddies at SMISA Stadium on 15 March.

Speaking in his pre-match press conference, the German manager said, “Diomande will not be available on Sunday, but everyone else will be.”

Stephen Robinson has left St Mirren to join Aberdeen, with Craig McLeish, Jamie Langfield and Allan McManus being appointed on an interim basis for the Glaswegian outfit’s trip to Paisley, and it will be interesting to see how Rohl will set up his side for a crucial league game.

Tochi Chukwuani clear favourite to replace Mohamed Diomande

Diomande’s absence may be a blessing in disguise for the Gers, as it means Tochi Chukwuani will surely start alongside Nicolas Raskin in the midfield.

The former Sturm Graz star was surprisingly dropped to the bench against Celtic in the Scottish Gas Scottish Cup quarter-final at Ibrox on 8 March, with the Light Blues losing on penalties.

It’s safe to say that Rohl made a mistake by starting the Ivorian ace over the winter signing, but the German manager doesn’t seem to have any choice now.

Chukwuani will undoubtedly bring more defensive stability to the Glaswegian outfit, outdoing Diomande when it comes to tackles, clearances, blocked shots, ground duels and aerial duels won.

The Danish midfielder’s inclusion in the team will also surely give Raskin more license to roam in the final third, where he’s had an impact this season.

Diomande hasn’t been at his best this season and Rohl must either replace the 24-year-old or figure out a way to bring the best out of him as the Govan side look to catch Hearts at the top of the table.

Danny Rohl signing already fighting for career at Ibrox

Rohl has shown a lot of faith in Andreas Skov Olsen at Ibrox since signing him in January, but the forward has had the desired impact so far.

Rangers signed the winger on loan from VfL Wolfsburg until the end of the season, with the deal including an £8.6million option to buy, which certainly shouldn’t be triggered going by his recent performances.

The 26-year-old surely has an uphill battle to climb in the final nine league games of the campaign to convince the Gers he’s worth a significant outlay.

It wouldn’t be surprising to see Skov Olsen look for a new club in the summer unless he does something inspirational in G51.

Updated 24/7 with expert analysis from the heart of Govan.