Rangers boss Giovanni van Bronckhorst handed a start to their fringe players in the Europa League final group stage encounter against Lyon. They impressed in a 1-1 draw at Parc Olympique Lyonnais and the gaffer might have a selection dilemma now ahead of locking horns with Hearts in a crucial Sunday lunchtime outing.
The Gers are set to visit Tynecastle to take on the Jamtarts and should expect a fierce fight from the home side who grabbed a 1-1 draw in the reverse fixture. A late equalizer from Craig Halkett silenced the Ibrox crowd and their headstrong display week in week out has kept both Celtic and Rangers on their toes in the title hunt.
Predicted 4-3-3 Rangers Lineup To Face Hearts
Defence
The gaffer rested Allan McGregor in favour of Jon McLaughlin on Thursday night but is expected to restore the 40-year-old veteran between the sticks for this tricky away tie. McGregor’s late howler denied Rangers a victory at Ibrox and the custodian, therefore, would be determined to make up for his mistake in Edinburgh.
Leon Balogun is closing in on his return from a hamstring injury and would undergo a late fitness test before the weekend clash. However, Calvin Bassey has been sublime as a makeshift centre-half and should continue pairing up with Connor Goldson in the heart of the backline in case his fellow countryman fails to recover in time. Skipper James Tavernier is expected to reclaim his place down the right, also the experience of Borna Barisic as a left fullback would help balance the game between defence and attack.
Midfield
The Gers might opt for a three-man midfield with Glen Kamara operating from the base. Bronckhorst’s decision to take him off at half-time (against Lyon) must be tactical given the technicality and vision of the Finnish ace in the middle of the park. Joe Aribo is exceptional with his work ethic, marauding runs and pressing. His movements would be essential to break down Hearts rhythm and composure. Scott Arfield has regained his charm under the new chief and his versatility, box-to-box runs and link-up play must be utilized to dominate the show centrally. Steven Davis, John Lundstram, Ryan Jack and Juninho Bacuna need to stay patient and wait for their opportunity to shine.
Attack
Alfredo Morelos must return to the starting XI to spearhead the attack. He is in fine form of late and his poaching traits might make the difference in such an edgy contest. Ianis Hagi needs to uplift his form and show more consistency down the right, whereas the pace and flair of Ryan Kent on the left would be menacing for the hosts’ defensive third. Fashion Sakala, Kemar Roofe and Scott Wright should remain among substitutes with a view to creating impact as ‘super subs’.
