Rangers are categorically out of the Premiership race following last weekend’s Old Firm disaster against Celtic. Moreover, they suffered a 1-0 defeat at Braga in the first leg of the Europa League quarter-final and manager Giovanni van Bronckhorst must turn things around on Sunday lunchtime versus St Mirren ahead of midweek’s decisive return leg fixture.
Although the Buddies have the home advantage at St Mirren Park, the Gers should show their supremacy as they did in the last two meetings earlier this campaign. Since March, the 10th-placed Saints are having a dreadful run with only one win. However, a few good results might see them conclude their season on a high given they are only four points behind Dundee United who are currently fourth in the league standings.
Predicted 4-2-3-1 Rangers Lineup To Face St. Mirren
Defence
Allan McGregor is at the twilight of his career and might hang up his gloves by the end of the ongoing term. His performance has been below par in recent games, but he is continuing as the Gers ‘number 1’ ahead of Jon McLaughlin and Robby McCrorie.
Filip Helander has not been a part of Rangers‘ European squad and the manager should deploy him in the heart of the backline alongside Connor Goldson. Calvin Bassey has cemented the left-back role ahead of Borna Barisic, whereas skipper James Tavernier must show his attacking expertise down the right with marauding runs, crosses and set-piece traits.
Midfield
Van Bronckhorst is preferring a double pivot deep down the midfield. But he must keep both Ryan Jack and John Lundstram fit for the upcoming Europa League contest. Jack was subbed off after an hour, and, therefore, should keep his place in the middle of the park. Veteran Steven Davis deserves first-team minutes after showing his mastery for Northern Ireland during the international break.
Scott Arfield, known for his vision and versatility, is expected to operate as the right midfielder. Aaron Ramsey was not involved against Braga but might get the preference as a ‘number 10’ over Joe Aribo and Glen Kamara. Ryan Kent is irreplaceable down the left with his pace, directness and creative spark. Having said that, his minutes must be managed carefully to avoid another setback.
Attack
Alfredo Morelos is ruled out for the rest of the season and the Dutch boss must select someone between Kemar Roofe, Cedric Itten and Fashion Sakala as the ‘number 9’ option. None of them has impressed while spearheading the attack, yet the experience and poaching attributes of Roofe might earn him a nod on Sunday afternoon.
