Rangers were always expected to bolster their squad massively this summer in order to push for the Premiership title right after their comeback to the top tier but the way Mark Warburton utilised the transfer window is quite remarkable. Despite spending just a pittance, Rangers brought in as many as nine new players to improve their first team squad.
It’s a big step up from Scottish Championship to the Premiership and Rangers needed quality and experienced players to thrive at the bigger stage. Players like Barton, Kranjcar, and Hill were brought in for the experience they bring as well as quality. Cross-town rivals Celtic are boasting five consecutive Premiership titles on the bounce and their domestic monopoly certainly looks under threat.
With nine new players, Rangers look almost done in the transfer market. The early business they did could prove to be crucial. The Gers have a deep and strong squad now and in this article. Let us discuss the strongest possible starting XI of the Glasgow giants.
Defence
Even though Rangers managed to bring in the experience of 34-year-old Matt Gilks from Burnley, Wes Foderingham is likely to remain the first-choice under the bar. The 25-year-old has a strong last season at Ibrox and can improve big time from the competition for starting place with veteran Gilks. James Tavernier and skipper Lee Wallace are likely to remain as first-choice full-backs. New signing Lee Hodson, who is capable of playing as either right-back or left-back, will act as a cover for both full-backs. Rob Kiernan and Danny Wilson are likely to be seen as the first choice pairing at the heart of the defence while veteran Clint Hill will act as an experienced cover.
Midfield
Warburton has a wealth of options available at his disposal in the middle of the park. Joey Barton and Andy Halliday are likely to be the first-choice central midfield partnership while Jordan Rossiter will also get a decent amount of playing time on a rotational basis. Niko Kranjcar will start most games as the number 10 while Barrie McKay and Harry Forrester are likely to be the first choices on the flanks. Michael O’Halloran and Joe Dodoo will act as covers on the wide areas.
Attack
Martyn Waghorn will definitely remain the first choice striker of the Gers next season. Veteran Kenny Miller still has it in him to act as a solid backup to the 26-year-old.
