Rangers have already conquered the coveted Premiership crown after decade-long despair. Their only objective should now be maintaining the unbeaten league status and the Sunday afternoon game against Hibernian would be a challenge despite playing them at Ibrox.
Hibs have shown a massive upsurge under Jack Ross and are on course to finish third behind the Old Firm rivals. These two sides have met thrice so far this campaign and each of them turned out to be a close contest unlike the Gers’ sheer supremacy in other fixtures. They claimed a couple of edgy 1-0 win, whereas the first meeting resulted in a thrilling 2-2 draw back in September.
Predicted 4-3-3 Rangers Lineup To Face Hibernian
Defence
Steven Gerrard brought back Jon McLaughlin between the sticks against Cove Rangers but the custodian is expected to make way this weekend for veteran Allan McGregor. The Scotsman is still going strong at the age of 39 and has been rewarded a contract extension for his stewardship between the sticks.
Skipper James Tavernier is back on the grass, but the game against Hibs would be too early for him to make it to the matchday squad. Rangers have appealed against Nathan Patterson’s (along with the other players who breached the regulation) Covid ban and the youngster is likely to retain his place until the verdict is out. Connor Goldson and Filip Helander have formed a towering partnership in the heart of the backline. Also, the presence of Borna Barisic down the left would be crucial in terms of set-piece activities, crosses, cut insides and overlapping runs.
Midfield
Ryan Jack is yet to recover from his recurring calf strain. But the 36-year-old Steven Davis has stepped in exquisitely in Jack’s absence deep down the midfield. Joe Aribo was rested against Cove but should reclaim his place in the middle of the park replacing Scott Arfield. Glen Kamara, known for his technical traits, creativity and midfield masterclass, should orchestrate the show with his vision and composure.
Attack
Gerrard had the luxury to rest his first-team attackers versus Cove and still clinched a thumping 4-0 win with Scott Wright, Kemar Roofe and Jermain Defoe spearheading the attack. Although it would be a tough call to make, the gaffer should bring back Ianis Hagi for his chemistry with Alfredo Morelos and Ryan Kent. Morelos has been standout as a ‘number 9’ and should look to make a difference as he did at Easter Road earlier this year. Ryan Kent is enjoying a boisterous run from the left-hand flank and would cause menace in Hibs defence if he exhibits his usual display at Ibrox.
