Despite closing in on their first league title in ten years, Rangers were far from their best last weekend against bottom-placed Hamilton Academical. A 1-1 draw was still a point gained for the Bears considering how underwhelming they were in South Lanarkshire and Steven Gerrard, thus, must motivate his Rangers side to bounce back on Saturday afternoon against Kilmarnock.
Although the incredible home record makes them favourites to secure all three points, Tommy Wright’s appointment should see Killie script a resurgence recovering from their dire run. The Northern Irishman lost his first game in charge on Wednesday night against Motherwell, but the promise exhibited by his men might make things tricky this weekend for the Glasgow heavyweights.
Predicted 4-3-3 Rangers Lineup Against Kilmarnock
Defence
The outstanding Allan McGregor saved the Gers from humiliation against the Accies and almost won them the game single-handedly until Ross Callachan’s equaliser in the closing seconds. The Scotsman is expected to make a difference yet again at Ibrox.
Rangers have strengthened themselves in winter on top of a pretty stable backline. Jack Simpson holds a bright future ahead of him, but he must wait for his opportunities as the gaffer is unlikely to alter Connor Goldson and Filip Helander’s partnership in the heart of the defence. Skipper James Tavernier would operate from his usual right-back role whereas Borna Barisic, impressive last week, should retain his spot on the left.
Midfield
Bongani Zungu was handed a rare start but failed to impress against Hamilton Academical. Both Ryan Jack and Steven Davis are irreplaceable in the middle of the park, and they should start along with Glen Kamara.
Attack
The versatility of Joe Aribo needs to be explored to incorporate Davis, Jack and Kamara together in the centre of the pitch. The Super Eagles sensation has shown his adaptability while operating from the wide and therefore should take Ianis Hagi’s place who was unimpressive at SuperSeal.
Ryan Kent remains the most menacing attacking threat with his unpredictability, pace and power from the left-hand flank. However, the suspension of Kemar Roofe and Alfredo Morelos has left the Light Blues with Cedric Itten as the only ‘number 9’ option available (with Jermain Defoe ruled out as well with a calf strain) to spearhead the Rangers attack against Kilmarnock.
