Rangers might have lost all their Champions League games, but they stand a good chance to salvage something on Wednesday night when they host Liverpool at Ibrox. The Reds are having a catastrophic spell, whereas injuries to Luis Diaz and Trent Alexander-Arnold have added more misery on top of a 3-2 defeat against Arsenal.
On the other hand, the Gers have regained momentum in the Premiership with successive 4-0 triumphs versus Hearts and St. Mirren. It won’t be a stroll in the park for the Merseysiders despite a comprehensive 2-0 victory at Anfield in the reverse fixture and the Light Blues must capitalize on Liverpool’s dismal run of form to keep their European hopes alive for the remainder of the season.
Predicted 4-2-3-1 Rangers Lineup To Face Liverpool
Defence
Allan McGregor saved Rangers from humiliation with a number of stunning stops last midweek. He is expected to keep his place between the sticks and deliver yet another majestic performance to frustrate the visitors.
Skipper James Tavernier must exhibit his attacking expertise with marauding runs, crosses, cut insides and set-piece attributes. Borna Barisic has been exquisite down the left as his measured display between attack and defence is helping the Gers in transitions. Connor Goldson must maintain his composure in the heart of the backline and the former Liverpool centre-half Ben Davies is likely to partner him in a ‘back four’ formation. Giovanni van Bronckhorst opted for a ‘back three’ at Anfield which, however, did not work out in terms of balance and sustainability.
Midfield
A double pivot suits Rangers’ game with John Lundstram and Ryan Jack anchoring the show from the centre of the pitch. Jack has improved immensely after a slow start and the pair should pull the strings by carrying and distributing the ball forward.
While they have ample wide attacking options in their ranks, Ryan Kent must get the nod against his former club in spite of an underwhelming run. The Englishman is capable of causing menace from the left, also a standout outing against the Buddies should see Fashion Sakala operating from the other flank. The Dutch boss needs to be aggressive from the very first minute, and therefore, deploy Malik Tillman as a ‘number 10’ ahead of Glen Kamara or Scott Arfield. Kamara, Arfield and the veteran Steven Davis could be involved at some stage in the second half.
Attack
Antonio Colak deserves a start over Alfredo Morelos given his blistering scoring streak in Scottish football. The latter failed to leave an impact on the road and a ‘super sub’ role might suit him more under the current circumstances.
