Rangers have already conquered the coveted Premiership crown maintaining an unbeaten streak. However, their exquisite European run came to an abrupt ending and the Gers must aim for another silverware now as they set to begin their quest for the prestigious Scottish Cup on Sunday evening against Cove Rangers.
Cove Rangers are enjoying an astounding League One campaign and have defeated Alloa Athletic in a late thriller to earn a trip to Ibrox. Although the prime objective should be a promotion to the second tier, the Toonsers are relishing the opportunity of contesting the Scottish champions. Managed by ex-Celtic star Paul Hartley, Cove would attempt to cause an upset by defying the odds.
Predicted 4-3-3 Rangers Lineup To Face Cove Rangers
Defence
There should not be any place of complacency within the Bears camp. Steven Gerrard must field the best possible squad against the minnows and therefore, bank on 39-year-old Allan McGregor between the sticks over Jon McLaughlin. The latter enjoyed a majestic start following his summer arrival, but the stewardship of the former Hull City custodian can’t be comprised in the closing months of the campaign.
Rangers, meanwhile, have been handed a blow with Nathan Patterson, Bongani Zungu, Calvin Bassey and youth pair Dapo Mebude and Brian Kinnear been hit with four-game bans with a further two suspended for breaking covid protocols in February. Patterson, in particular, did well in place of skipper James Tavernier since returning from an internal suspension and the gaffer, thus, might have to rely upon veteran Leon Balogun once more in a makeshift right-back role. Connor Goldson and Filip Helander must retain the resilience in the heart of the backline, whereas Borna Barisic, impressive with Croatia in the recent World Cup qualifiers, should operate from his usual left-back spot.
Midfield
Persistent injury problems have sidelined Ryan Jack, but the towering presence of Steven Davis never let the Light Blues miss the Scotsman’s absence in the middle of the park. The Northern Irishman is still going strong at the age of 36 and should once again orchestrate the game from the centre of the pitch. Scott Arfield might grab a start along with Joe Aribo to inject more flair and flexibility. Glen Kamara, having played every minute for Finland, is expected to be introduced if the situation demands.
Attack
Romanian sensation Ianis Hagi fired in a dramatic late winner last week against North Macedonia. The in-form attacker deserves a start from his usual right-hand flank whereas Ryan Kent must look to make a difference from the left. Alfredo Morelos finally broke the Celtic duck and was adjudged as the Scottish Premiership player of the month for his massive impact. He should spearhead the attack ahead of Kemar Roofe, Jermain Defoe and Cedric Itten in order to conclude the season with more accolades.
