Cousin has scored 11 times for Rangers this season

Rangers striker Daniel Cousin has been been cleared to return to first team action after missing almost five weeks with a jaw injury.

The news comes at the right time for the Ibrox club, with their Uefa Cup quarter-final tie against Sporting in Lisbon on Thursday.

"It's a big boost as Daniel gives us an extra striking option," Rangers boss Walter Smith told the club website.

"He's done plenty of running, so from a fitness point of view, he is okay."

However, the positive news about Cousin has been tempered by the fact that defender Carlos Cuellar has become a doubt for the match in Lisbon.

The Spaniard, who has been in fine form for Walter Smith's team this season, has been floored by a virus.

And with central defensive partner David Weir already suspended for the match, the Rangers boss could face a selection headache.

Cuellar has been ordered to remain in bed for two days, although the club is hopeful he will be able to travel to the Portuguese capital on Wednesday.

MY SPORT: DEBATE Would you have Cousin start against Sporting?

Gabon international Cousin received a broken jaw in the Ibrox side's Uefa Cup match against Werder Bremen.

However, after surgery and an intensive training programme at Murray Park the 31-year-old is now in line to make his return in the second leg in Lisbon.

"Obviously, with taking a knock like he did, it is a case of building up his confidence again more than anything," said Smith.

"But now he is happy and is able to take part in training games, something he has not done so far."

Rangers struggled to make in-roads towards goal in the 0-0 draw with Sporting at Ibrox, meaning they have to score in Portugal in order to progress to their first European semi-final for 36 years.

However, Smith was pleased with the showing of his other forwards in the 3-3 draw with Dundee United at Tannadice on Sunday.

"With Kris Boyd and Nacho Novo scoring at the weekend and Jean-Claude Darcheville playing well, we have a good mix," the Rangers boss added.