The Premiership season is set to resume this midweek following the World Cup break. Rangers will be back in action against Hibernian on Thursday night and new boss Michael Beale must aim for all three points shaking off the shambles of Giovanni van Bronckhorst’s tenure.
The reverse tie at Easter Road finished all square when the hosts netted a stoppage-time equalizer against the nine-man Gers. So far they have failed to build any momentum in the title hunt with Celtic leading the Premiership race by a comfortable nine-point margin. Meanwhile, the Light Blues secured a comprehensive victory over Bayer Leverkusen during last weekend’s friendly and the result must boost their confidence ahead of hosting Hibs in Beale’s first official game in charge as the Ibrox chief.
Predicted 4-2-3-1 Rangers Lineup To Face Hibernian
Defence
While it remains to be seen whether the ex-QPR manager promotes Robby McCrorie in the long run, 40-year-old Allan McGregor is expected to retain his ‘number 1’ status for the time being ahead of Jon McLaughlin.
Rangers have been unfortunate with persistent injury problems. They have been without an array of key defenders for months, however, the gaffer is hopeful to have both Connor Goldson and Ben Davies back for the midweek encounter. Goldson should return to the heart of the backline and partner with teenage sensation Leon King who has been a revelation so far this season.
Skipper James Tavernier must showcase his mastery down the right, whereas academy graduate Adam Devine could operate as a left fullback considering the absence of both Borna Barisic and Ridvan Yilmaz. Barisic is representing Croatia in Qatar and their young Turkish fullback continues to be sidelined with an injury concern.
Midfield
Glen Kamara could not find his feet under Giovani van Bronckhorst but is likely to revive his form under Beale who is aware of his excellence in the centre of the pitch. The Finland international must be lined up alongside John Lundstram as the ‘double pivot’.
Malik Tillman should occupy the ‘number 10’ spot after scoring a brace against Leverkusen. Rabbi Matondo looked sharp and steady from the right and the gaffer must decide now whether to hand him a run of games after a slow start to life in Scotland. Despite struggling of late, Ryan Kent is irreplaceable down the left for his pace, flair and finesse.
Attack
Alfredo Morelos had an impressive cameo versus the Bundesliga outfit, but the Englishman must rely on Antonio Colak who has depicted his poaching traits high up the pitch. The Colombian hitman could be involved as a substitute late in the outing.
