Goalkeeper Allan McGregor was selected ahead of Neil Alexander for Rangers’ Scottish Premier League opener against Falkirk.
The clash at Ibrox marked McGregor’s first competitive start since his indiscretions with the Scotland national team which left a huge question mark over both his club and country careers.
There was also a starting role for Kris Boyd, who admitted recently he had been frustrated by his lack of game-time in pre-season, and John Fleck, who was back in the team following a recent row with assistant manager Ally McCoist.
New Falkirk manager Eddie May started with four new signings – Marc Twaddle, Brian MacLean, Ryan Flynn and Vitor Santos.
Goalkeeper Josh Wagenaar had to settle for a place on the bench following his move to the Bairns, with Robert Olejnik keeping his place.