Celtic and Rangers, the Old Firm rivals, are set to lock horns for one final time this season at Ibrox. The Sunday lunchtime tie is a dead rubber, however, the Hoops have a point to prove as they could still spoil the Gers’ unbeaten league status. They got knocked out from the Scottish Cup a couple of weeks back and, therefore, must aim for their first derby win this season to uplift the spirit ahead of the upcoming term.
Rangers, meanwhile, suffered a shocking exit from the Scottish Cup quarterfinal versus St. Johnstone. They could not hold the late extra-time lead and eventually ended up losing 4-2 in the tie-breaker. While they have already conquered the coveted league crown a few weeks ago, seven points from the remaining three fixtures would see them hit the 100-point figure.
Predicted 4-3-3 Rangers Lineup To Face Celtic
Defence
Although we have seen Jon McLaughlin featuring a few times between the sticks, Steven Gerrard is unlikely to experiment and drop Allan McGregor in such a high-voltage contest. The 39-year-old custodian must maintain his stewardship against the former champions.
With Nathan Patterson suspended for the remainder of the campaign, skipper James Tavernier would retain his place down the right-hand side of Rangers’ defence. Filip Helander was forced to leave the pitch in the closing minutes and the gaffer should rely on his winter signing Jack Simpson (from Bournemouth) to partner Connor Goldson in the heart of the backline. Borna Barisic is set to operate from his usual left-back role with Calvin Bassey suspended.
Midfield
Ryan Jack is sidelined for the rest of the season, but the expertise of Steven Davis did not let the Bears feel Jack’s absence in the centre of the pitch. The 36-year-old Northern Irishman would once again orchestrate the game having scored a stunner in their previous meeting, whereas the technicality of Glen Kamara and the attacking intent of Joe Aribo form a balanced as well as effective midfield set-up.
Attack
Alfredo Morelos must spearhead the attack in his potential last Old Firm derby. Versatile Kemar Roofe should be deployed from the right-hand flank ahead of Ianis Hagi, also the pace and prowess of Ryan Kent might keep Jonjoe Kenny on his toes as it happened in the previous outing. Scott Wright, Cedric Itten and Jermain Defoe would remain among the substitutes and might get introduced to make difference late in the match.
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