A change in formation did not work out for Rangers in their high-profile Champions League clash against Liverpool. They suffered a 2-0 defeat at Anfield on Tuesday night and gaffer Giovanni van Bronckhorst must decide on whether to return to a ‘back four’ this weekend versus St. Mirren.
The Buddies are enjoying a flying run under the tutelage of Steve Robinson. They not only grabbed a late victory against Livingston last weekend but also outplayed the reigning Champions Celtic before the international break. The confidence is sky-high after back-to-back wins and the Light Blues must perform their level best to avoid an upset at Ibrox on Saturday afternoon.
Predicted 4-2-3-1 Rangers Lineup To Face St. Mirren
Defence
Allan McGregor was majestic against the Reds as he saved Rangers from further humiliation with some stupendous stops. He conceded twice from set pieces but was unbeaten from the open play.
Ben Davies is back in action after missing a few games through an injury problem. He should keep his place in the heart of the backline alongside Connor Goldson, also the dynamic fullback duo of James Tavernier and Borna Barisic must exhibit their aggression and flair from the flanks. Filipe Helander and John Souttar are still sidelined with their long-term fitness woes and the likes of Leon King and James Sands should be named among the substitutes. Van Bronckhorst must form a stable defence to reduce frailties going forward.
Midfield
Ryan Jack must be restored in the centre of the pitch to partner with John Lundstram as the double pivot. Steven Davis might feel the fatigue if handed back-to-back starts, also neither Scott Arfield nor Glen Kamara is suitable for a deep-lying midfield role.
Ryan Kent was largely isolated against his former club, but a 4-2-3-1 would allow him more freedom from the left-hand flank. Scott Wright’s pace and directness could be utilized from the right ahead of Fashion Sakala and Rabbi Matondo. The pair, however, deserve more minutes amid the injury absence of Tom Lawrence and Ianis Hagi.
Attack
Alfredo Morelos was handed a start against Liverpool. But he looked off-paced on Tuesday night and the manager, therefore, should bank on in-form Antonio Colak for the St. Mirren fixture. Kemar Roofe has not regained full fitness yet despite returning to full training from a long injury layoff.
