Rangers are "hopeful" Ryan Jack will return to the squad for their Boxing Day clash with Hibs.
The midfielder has endured a longer than expected spell on the sidelines after picking up a knee injury against former club Aberdeen on November 22.
Steven Gerrard revealed before last week's Betfred Cup defeat to St Mirren the Scotland star's injury was more serious than first reported.
He won't feature when Rangers visit St Johnstone on Wednesday but assistant boss Gary McAllister is optimistic he'll be involved when the Hibees come to Ibrox this weekend.
He said: "Ryan Jack has had a couple days training which is a big boost, we are hopeful he makes the squad for Boxing Day against Hibs and also Alfredo returns to the squad."
Rangers extended their Premiership lead over Celtic to 16 points on Saturday with a hard-fought comeback win over Motherwell.
The Steelmen nicked an early lead before settling into a 5-5-0 formation that frustrated Gerrard's side for long spells.
McAllister saluted his team's persistence as Kemar Roofe's double and a Cedric Itten header secured a vital three points.
He said: "I thought there was a good variation in our play on Saturday to get our rewards and a deserved win.
"The work and the pressure the boys did in the first half was impressive, but it does take time to break down this block.
"Plus, the addition of some subs who can help unlock a defence helps us.
"Then, being able to bring on the discipline of Zungu is great."
