Rangers are far from their usual self in recent games even though they are grinding out results since suffering a 7-1 humiliation against Liverpool. The fans were not at all happy following a nervy 1-0 Cup win this midweek against second-tier Dundee and the pressure will be immense on Giovanni van Bronckhorst as his depleted side is set to host Livingston on Saturday afternoon.
The Gers began their quest of re-conquering the Premiership crown with a 2-1 victory against Livi at Almondvale. They conceded minutes after the kickoff but netted twice in quick succession late into the contest. David Martindale has done an exquisite job with a limited budget and resources, and his upbeat army should aim for revenge given the ongoing conundrum at Ibrox.
Predicted 4-2-3-1 Rangers Lineup To Face Livingston
Defence
Allan McGregor was far from his best against Motherwell. But the veteran Scotsman is likely to reclaim his starting status after making way for fellow countryman Jon McLaughlin on Wednesday night.
Skipper James Tavernier must keep his place down the right as he scored from a stellar free-kick to seal all three points during their last meeting. 18-year-old Leon King has been a revelation in deep defence and his emergence has relieved the gaffer amid the injury absence of Connor Goldson, John Souttar and Filip Helander. Ben Davies has overcome fitness woes and delivered some headstrong performances in the heart of the backline. Young left fullback Ridvan Yilmaz made his opportunity count against Dundee, but the experienced Borna Barisic is expected to get the nod for this weekend’s tie.
Midfield
With Ryan Jack ruled out for months and Glen Kamara still nursing an injury, Rangers are lacking enough depth in central midfield. John Lundstram has been ever-present so far this campaign, however, the Dutch boss should utilize Scott Arfield’s versatility and deploy him from the deep alongside the English ace. James Sands and Steven Davis could be introduced at a later stage to inject fresh legs.
In spite of a blistering display versus St. Mirren, Fashion Sakala was surprisingly dropped against Motherwell. He returned to action versus The Dee, but the manager might once again place him among the substitutes in favour of Rabbi Matondo and Ryan Kent from the flanks. Malik Tillman must operate as a ‘number 10’, particularly after his sensational goal versus the Jamtarts.
Attack
Kemar Roofe’s return is a massive boost for the Light Blues, but the Jamaica international as well as Alfredo Morelos have slipped down the pecking order behind Antonio Colak. The Croatian hitman must be spearheading their attack against Livingston.
