A stalemate against Sparta Prague in Czechia is not a bad result for Rangers in their battle to make it to the next round of the Europa League. It is too early to pass any judgment, but the new Gers chief Philippe Clement has restored stability after months of mediocrity under Michael Beale. They will host Hearts on Sunday evening and a win at Ibrox should boost them towards building momentum in the Premiership.
The Jambos were shambolic at Tynecastle as they suffered a dreadful 4-1 defeat against Celtic in the previous gameweek. It would be a colossal task to upset Rangers in their own backyard, particularly after a thumping 4-0 win over Hibernian to kickstart Clement’s managerial run.
Predicted 4-2-3-1 Rangers Lineup To Face Hearts
Defence
Jack Butland was excellent on Thursday night as he made some stellar saves to earn his clean sheet. He is expected to keep his place between the sticks for this weekend’s encounter.
Ben Davies slotted in well as a makeshift left fullback amid the injury absence of Borna Barisic. Ridvan Yilmaz was ineligible for the European tie, but the Turkish ace is likely to return to the starting XI replacing the Englishman. Ex-Hearts centre-half John Souttar and Connor Goldson must continue as the central defensive pairing ahead of Davies, Leon King or Leon Balogun. Also, skipper James Tavernier should balance his game between defence and attack while featuring from the right.
Midfield
Nicolas Raskin and John Lundstram have impressed deep down the midfield as ‘double pivot’ and the gaffer should stick with the midfield duo amid injuries to Jose Cifuentes and Kieran Dowell. Ryan Jack could get deployed at some stage to add more depth as well as experience in the centre of the pitch.
The absence of Tom Lawrence and Rabbi Matondo is a major blow for the Light Blues. Sam Lammers, primarily a centre-forward, has been converted into a ‘number 10’ and his flexibility and link-up play would allow the manager to tweak the formation in and around the attacking third. Todd Cantwell, back from his injury, is tipped to continue down the right, but the focus must be on Abdallah Sima who has been exquisite from the left with his flair, finesse and finishing traits. Scott Wright could be involved from the bench as a second-half substitute.
Attack
Rangers have ample options high up the pitch with Danilo, Kemar Roofe and Cyriel Dessers challenging each other for the first-team status. The latter, however, is expected to retain his ‘number 9’ role against the Jamtarts.
