Steven Gerrard’s Rangers have climbed up to the 2nd place in the Scottish league, after beating St Johnstone 5-1 at the weekend. The Gers would be elated with the start they have made to the campaign, and now they welcome Championship side Ayr on Wednesday in the quarterfinals of the Scottish League Cup.
Ian McCall’s men are at the top of the Scottish Championship table, losing just one of their first six games. They topped their group in the cup competition, winning all their four games and are fresh from a 2-0 loss away from home in the domestic league. But Rangers have a quality squad and are expected to move to the next round. Here is the predicted lineup Gerrard might field for this tie:
Team News:
In early teams news, the Gers are without Jamie Murphy, Lee Wallace and Jordan Rossiter, all of whom are long-term absentees. Gareth McAuley and Ryan Jack are suffering from calf problems but could yet make the squad for this tie.
Expected lineup (4-3-3):
Defence:
Wes Foderingham has found it hard to break into the first team this season. He started in Rangers’ 3-1 victory over Kilmarnock in the previous round of this competition and could retain his place in the side for Wednesday. Nikola Katic has been a regular in the first team under Gerrard and could start this game alongside Joe Worrall, who has been impressive in bits this season.
James Tavernier would look to add some width to the side on the right flank in defence. Borna Barisic, who had a forgettable time in the last round of the competition, could get another chance to impress at right-back.
Midfield:
Scott Arfield did not last the whole game at the weekend and could be fresh to take on Ayr this week. He would start at the heart of the midfield with Ovie Ejaria adding some creativity in a slightly advanced role.
Graham Dorrans is yet to make a start for Rangers under Gerrard, but he might get his chance in this game, starting in a free-floating role in the midfield.
Attack:
Ryan Kent was subbed off in the thumping 5-1 victory at the weekend. The Liverpool loanee could be the danger man for Ayr, as his pace and trickery have proven too hot to handle, even for teams in the top flight.
Kyle Lafferty, who came off the bench against St Johnstone, could replace Alfredo Morelos in attack while Glenn Middleton, who played no role in that game, could get his chance to impress, on the right side of Rangers’ offense.
Here is how they might line up:
