Despite a comprehensive Friday night win against minnows Stirling Albion in the Scottish Cup, Rangers’ last midweek draw at Pittodrie saw Celtic closing the gap to four points at the top of the Premiership standings. They must get back to the winning ways in the league, but a tricky test waits in a couple of days’ time as they are set to host David Martindale’s Livingston at Ibrox.
These two sides have met twice so far this term and the Light Blues claimed commanding victories on both occasions. However, Livi have shown a massive upsurge of late and are punching above their weight once again. Rangers must not take this tie for granted and deliver a top-notch display on Wednesday night.
Predicted 4-3-3 Rangers Lineup To Face Livingston
Defence
Although Jon McLaughlin returned to action against Stirling, Allan McGregor should reclaim his place between the sticks. He has been restored as the Gers ‘number 1′ by Giovanni van Bronckhorst.
Skipper James Tavernier is irreplaceable down the right-hand side of Rangers’ ‘back four’. His overlapping runs, set-pieces traits and scoring attributes should cause menace in Livi defence. Connor Goldson is expected to retain his place in the heart of the backline, but the veteran Leon Balogun might make way for compatriot Calvin Bassey who has been a revelation as a centre-half. Borna Barisic should feature as the left fullback and offer his experience in the defensive third.
Midfield
Rangers have received a surprise boost following Nigeria’s exit from the AFCON. Joe Aribo should be back with the team and might even start against Livingston. Glen Kamara is likely to operate from the deep, whereas winter recruit James Sands might grab back to back league starts ahead of Juninho Bacuna and John Lundstram. Steven Davis, Ryan Jack and Scott Arfield remain major doubts with their respective injury concerns.
Attack
The champions might have to make some adjustments high up the pitch with Ianis Hagi potentially sidelined with a knee injury picked up against Stirling Albion. Ryan Kent is suspended after receiving marching orders versus Aberdeen and the gaffer, therefore, might have to rely on Fashion Sakala and Scott Wright as the wide attacking options. Kemar Roofe is back in action, but the poaching instincts of Alfredo Morelos should be valued in the attacking third. Cedric Itten might get involved as a second-half substitute, also a scoring debut in the Scottish Cup should see teenage sensation Alexander lowry making it to the matchday squad.
