Despite back-to-back draws against Hearts and Dynamo Kyiv, an injury-time equalizer against the Ukrainian outfit could boost Rangers’ campaign ahead of locking horns with Motherwell on Saturday afternoon. The Light Blues have temporarily switched to Hampden Park due to the ongoing renovation work at Ibrox, but the home crowd must back the boys who are on a mission to turn things around under Philippe Clement’s tutelage.
Rangers have dominated this fixture over the years until the most recent meeting when they were stunned by Well back in March. Clement is working on a squad revamp to overcome last season’s disappointment, and the rejuvenated Gers must aim for their first win of the 2024-25 campaign before midweek’s decisive return leg Champions League qualifier contest against The Blue & Whites.
Predicted 4-2-3-1 Rangers Lineup To Face Motherwell
Defence
Rangers have roped in Liam Kelly on a Bosman, but the ‘number 1’ role belongs to Jack Butland who has exhibited his expertise between the sticks since plying his trade north of the border.
Skipper James Tavernier should keep hold of the right-back spot irrespective of the transfer rumours. Robin Propper could finally start in the heart of the backline and the Dutchman’s inclusion could see Leon Balogun finding a place among the substitutes alongside Ben Davies. John Souttar must exhibit his resilience in deep defence after a slow start to life since joining from Hearts. Ridvan Yilmaz is expected to get the nod ahead of Jefte as the preferred left fullback.
Midfield
Nicolas Raskin remains sidelined with an injury sustained during pre-season, but the Light Blues do not have further fitness concerns in the centre of the pitch. Connor Barron has shown his composure deep down the midfield, also, Mohamed Diomande must retain his first-team status to form a double pivot with the young Scotsman. Kieran Dowell could be involved as a substitute after an impressive cameo on Tuesday night.
A late assist from Václav Černý earned Rangers a crucial draw against Dynamo Kyiv, but the Czech wideman is not ready yet to start a game after limited sessions. Oscar Cortes is ruled out following his injury against the Jam Tarts, and the gaffer, therefore, might rely on Scott Wright and Ross McCausland down the flanks. Tom Lawrence must showcase his creative spark as an attacking playmaker.
Attack
Cyriel Dessers was heavily criticized for his wastefulness in the opening gameweek. But he rescued the Gers with a late equalizer in the European encounter. The Nigerian ‘number 9’ must spearhead the attack with Danilo tipped to continue as his understudy high up the pitch.
