Lorenzo Amoruso completed a remarkable transformation from villain to hero as Rangers snatched an unlikely late victory to remain in front at the top of the Premier League.

The Italian defender had gifted Billy Dodds a first-half opener for Dundee United at Ibrox when he failed to complete a straightforward clearance inside his own area.

But, after Rod Wallace grabbed an equaliser after 62 minutes, Amoruso swooped low to head home Giovanni van Bronckhorst's corner at the far post six minutes from time to seal three points.

It was a remarkable turnaround for the under-fire Rangers captain, who has endured a barrage of criticism in recent weeks after a string of suspect displays.

Surprise return for Amato

In the absence of the injured Jonathan Johansson and Gordon Durie, Rangers boss Dick Advocaat restored Argentine striker Gabriel Amato to his attack after a five-week absence with fatigue.

But the £4m summer signing failed to make any impression early on as the league leaders started in surprisingly low gear after the midweek defeat at Motherwell.

United counterpart Sturrock, who kicked off his Tannadice managerial career against the same opposition last month, made two changes from the side that won 1-0 at Tynecastle last week. 2-0

Frenchman Bernard Pascual returned to the defence in place of Jason de Vos, while there was also a recall for Icelandic international Siggi Jonsson in midfield.

Tony Vidmar retained his place at left-back, with Arthur Numan having to settle for a place on the bench in his return to full fitness.

Amoruso conceded a free-kick on the right edge of the area that could have spelled trouble but for Charbonnier's assured handling, and Craig Easton's 25-yarder was a sign of the visitors growing confidence.

The boos that greeted Amoruso's next touch left no doubt as to the Rangers fans' increasing frustration at their captain, and the home side might have found themselves two down on the half-hour.

Advocaat introduced Numan for Vidmar at half-time, and the Dutchman provided an extra attacking option with his forays forward down the left.

The break finally arrived courtesy of Wallace after 62 minutes as Amato headed Numan's cross back across goal.

Colin Hendry's half-hit shot landed invitingly for the former Leeds striker five yards out, and he turned and fired low into the bottom right corner for his 12th goal of the season.