Despite a weekend win against Motherwell, there is a growing concern in the Rangers camp amid injuries to various key players in recent weeks. They have little time to recover with Livingston set to visit Ibrox for the Scottish League Cup quarter-final fixture. Celtic’s early exit makes them favourites to clinch the crown and the gaffer Michael Beale must deploy his best options available to avoid a setback on Wednesday night.
On the other hand, Livi were dreadful on Saturday afternoon when they hosted the Celts at Almondvale. David Martindale’s men could not capitalize on Joe Hart’s early dismissal but rather conceded more goals towards a 3-0 humiliation. They must bounce back this midweek and show some resilience having been carnaged by the Gers earlier this campaign.
Predicted 4-2-3-1 Rangers Lineup To Face Livingston
Defence
Jack Butland was instrumental with his timely stops during the Light Blues’ edgy 1-0 win versus Motherwell. The English custodian would aim for his fourth successive clean sheet across competitions in the upcoming contest.
Skipper James Tavernier should drive his teammates on the pitch as he leads by example with his relentless attacks and overlapping runs down the right-hand flank. Connor Goldson and Ben Davies have been immense of late as the central defensive pairing, however, the manager must opt for a rotation on the left with Ridvan Yilmaz back to full fitness. Borna Barisic’s minutes must be managed carefully before next midweek’s trip to Cyprus for the Europa League outing.
Midfield
Tom Lawrence has joined Todd Cantwell and Nicolas Raskin in the treatment room. The trio are unlikely to return before the international break, and so is Kieran Dowell who is still recovering from a knee strain. Ryan Jack could be involved as a second-half substitute, but the Rangers boss must stick with John Lundstram and Jose Cifuentes as they have impressed as the ‘double pivot’ deep down the midfield.
Rabbi Matondo set it up for Cyriel Dessers for the solitary goal of the Motherwell tie. But he was forced to leave the pitch minutes later with an injury problem. The in-form winger is expected to miss a few games, but his absence might allow Scott Wright to revive his career as an outright wideman. Abdallah Sima should be utilized from the right with Kemar Roofe occupying the ‘number 10’ role amid the absence of Lawrence and Cantwell. Sam Lammers, featured so far as a utility attacking option, is likely to play his part from the bench.
Attack
Dessers’ goal earned Rangers three crucial points over the weekend. The Nigeria international must spearhead the attack given the unavailability of Danilo following a cheekbone injury sustained against St Johnstone.
