Despite a headstrong first half against Liverpool, Rangers collapsed embarrassingly after the break as they ended up losing 7-1 at Ibrox. They are not only eliminated from the Champions League but also failed to grab a single point so far from four group-stage encounters. They have scored just once and conceded 16 which is a new low for a club of their heritage and history. Things could go even worse if the Gers go down against Motherwell at Fir Park.
Rangers still have an outside chance of finding a place in the Europa League, but the focus should shift to reconquering the Premiership crown after losing it to Celtic last season. The Hoops are leading the race with a two-point cushion and the Gers, therefore, can’t afford another setback on Sunday lunchtime.
Predicted 4-2-3-1 Rangers Lineup To Face Motherwell
Defence
Veteran Allan McGregor has been restored as the ‘number 1’ and the 40-year-old Scotsman should keep his place between the sticks despite conceding 7 goals on Wednesday night.
Rangers have a massive crisis in the defensive third as veteran Connor Goldson is expected to miss months of action after suffering an injury against the Reds. Ben Davies is also being assessed after feeling discomfort during the game, whereas John Souttar and Filip Helander remain the long-term absentees leaving Giovanni van Bronckhorst with James Sands and Leon King as the only available options in the heart of the backline. James Tavernier must operate from the right and the left fullback Borna Barisic should get the nod over Ridvan Yilmaz after an impressive spell until the midweek encounter.
Midfield
Ryan Jack is also out for an extended period and the gaffer might deploy veteran Steven Davis alongside John Lundstram as the double pivot. Glen Kamara missed the Anfield outing with a little knock and will undergo a late fitness test before travelling to North Lanarkshire.
Amid injuries to Ianis Hagi and Tom Lawrence, Scott Arfield is likely to continue as a ‘number 10’ after finding the net versus the Merseysiders. Fashion Sakala has regained a starting status with his pace and flair from the right-hand flank, but the Dutch boss needs to drop underperforming Ryan Kent in favour of Rabbi Matondo. Malik Tillman and Scott Wright could be introduced as second-half substitutes.
Attack
Antonio Colak has netted 10 goals already in 9 Premiership games and the Croatian hitman must aim for a few more this weekend after a disappointing Champions League night. Alfredo Morelos might replace the ‘number 9’ at a later stage.
