Despite form and fitness concerns across the pitch, Rangers bounced back with a 2-0 victory against St Johnstone in the League Cup second-round fixture. The Light Blues will resume their Premiership campaign on Saturday afternoon as they set to host Ross County at Hampden Park before clashing heads with Old Firm rivals Celtic on 1st September.
The Staggies, under Don Cowie, have settled for back-to-back draws with Motherwell and Dundee United in the previous league encounters. However, they suffered a dreadful League Cup defeat versus League Two outfit Spartans and it remains to be seen if the Dingwall-based side defy the odds to script a comeback against the Glasgow giants.
Predicted 4-2-3-1 Rangers Lineup To Face Ross County
Defence
Although they have roped in Liam Kelly on a Bosman, Philippe Clement has relied on Jack Butland as the Gers ‘number 1’ in all competitions. The Englishman should aim for another clean sheet following last weekend’s comfortable outing in the Cup contest.
Skipper James Tavernier should keep his place on the right but must offer more work rate in the defensive third. John Souttar has cemented a regular role in the heart of the backline and the Belgian boss might opt for veteran Leon Balogun ahead of Ben Davies and Robin Propper if declared fit for the Ross County clash. Ridvan Yilmaz has sustained a thigh strain that will force him to be sidelined for four to six weeks. Summer signing Jefte should replace the Türkiye international down the left-hand side.
Midfield
With Nicolas Raskin still ruled out with an ankle injury, the gaffer could restore Connor Barron deep down the midfield irrespective of Kieran Dowell’s resolute display against the Saints. Versatile Dujon Sterling must retain his starting status as the ‘double pivot’ alongside Barron.
Mohamed Diomande was impressive as an attacking playmaker, and the Belgian boss should give him the nod over Tom Lawrence considering the latter’s dreadful run of form so far this season. Vaclav Cerny has impressed from the right-hand flank, but the crisis continues on the left amid the potential exit of Rabbi Matondo and the fitness woes of Scott Wright. Wright could be available for selection, but the Gers’ chief might bank on Lawrence or Ross McCausland as the alternate wide attacking option.
Attack
Cyriel Dessers has often been criticised for his lack of all-round performance. Yet he has shown his poaching traits with 3 goals in 5 games. The Nigerian ‘number 9’ must spearhead the attack, particularly after Danilo’s underwhelming show in the first half versus St Johnstone.
