NEW signing Maurice Edu could be set to make his debut in the first Old Firm game of the season.

The American midfielder - who joined the Ibrox club in a £2.5m deal - is unlikely to receive his work permit in time to face Aberdeen at Pittodrie.

Walter Smith would have preferred to give him some game time against the Dons instead of handing him a baptism of fire against Gordon Strachan's side, but it appears unlikely he will receive his paperwork in time.

Edu's agent, Leo Cullen, explained: "We are due to hear on Friday whether or not Maurice has been granted a work permit. Even if he does get one, he would then still have to go to the UK Embassy in America to get it processed.

"So, logistically, there is no chance he would be available to play for Rangers on Saturday.

"Therefore, all being well, you may see him make his debut against Celtic on August 31. You also have to remember he has done a lot of travelling and is currently trying to focus on the States' game in Guatemala this week.

"But I am sure he will be a great addition to Rangers."

Edu's former club, Toronto FC, could benefit from the sale of him by being given the green light to install real grass at their stadium.

His former employers are set to net around £1.75m from the MSL's sale of the player and former Old Firm star Mo Johnston, director of the club, says they now hope to put real grass down to replace the synthetic surface they've been using.

He said: "We are now hoping to try and replace the astroturf surface now."