Ian Black's experience is also of benefit, but MacLeod's efforts have shown a level of maturity and consistency this term that may not have been expected from a player in his maiden senior season.
He and Black are the most obvious choice for a central midfield pairing at Rangers, although Ally McCoist will feel that if, as promised, he is given money to strengthen his side when the transfer embargo is lifted, he could still do with an extra creative force in that area.
Hutton has not done much wrong and will feel hard done by if he is dropped, but Macleod looks like a player who could benefit from getting as much first-team experience as possible as Rangers begin to climb through the leagues.
MACLEOD/HUTTON, says Chris Jack
THE emergence of Lewis Macleod in recent months has been one of the main positives of the campaign for Rangers.
The young midfielder missed his first game of the season when the Gers' beat Queen's Park, with summer signing Ian Black and Kyle Hutton chosen to play in the central role. Neither shone.
With Macleod showing such sterling form, it would be harsh if the 18-year-old didn't get straight back into the starting line-up when he is back to match fitness.
While Hutton has done well in recent weeks, Black has failed to live up to the expectations many would have had after his high profile signing this summer.
The former Hearts man should be one of the Gers key men but has not done enough to merit an automatic place.
It would be a huge call for McCoist to drop Black but it is Macleod and Hutton who currently deserve to play.
Macleod/black, says Alison McConnell
Kyle Hutton, a survivor from the previous Ibrox regime, has recently been involved in the centre of midfield for Rangers, but Lewis MacLeod has been the surprise package this year.
Ian Black's experience is also of benefit, but MacLeod's efforts have shown a level of maturity and consistency this term that may not have been expected from a player in his maiden senior season.
He and Black are the most obvious choice for a central midfield pairing at Rangers, although McCoist will still feel that if, as promised, he is given money to strengthen his side when the transfer embargo is lifted, he could still do with an extra creative force in that area.
Hutton has not done much wrong and will feel hard done by if he is dropped, but MacLeod looks like a player who could benefit from getting as much first-team experience as possible as Rangers begin to climb through the leagues.
