It’s been a roller-coaster ride so far for Rangers who are undergoing a transition under Philippe Clement following a busy summer. They returned from Sweden after facing Malmo in the Europa League and the result must not deviate them from their season goals while locking horns with Hibernian.
The Gers have dominated the recent meetings and the Hibees’ early struggles make Clement’s men firm favourites despite several injury concerns. A 2-0 win against St Johnstone earned them their first Premiership win in the previous gameweek, and the upbeat Hibs must show some resilience to defy the odds at Ibrox on Sunday afternoon.
Predicted 4-2-3-1 Rangers Lineup To Face Hibernian
Defence
Jack Butland has restored stability between the sticks since his Bosman move in the summer of 2023. The Light Blues have also roped in Liam Kelly to challenge and cover the Englishman, but the Three Lions international must retain his starting status as he has done so far in all competitions.
Rangers have frailties in the defensive third, yet the pair of Robin Propper and John Souttar have shown signs of improvement after a dreadful start in the heart of the backline. Skipper James Tavernier is still preferred over Dujon Sterling and Neraysho Kasanwirjo for his attacking flair down the right-hand flank. Also, summer signing Jefte is expected to reclaim his left-back spot having missed out the Malmo tie due to suspension. Ridvan Yilmaz is still sidelined with his persistent injury problems and the Brazilian has grabbed the opportunities in the wake of the Türkiye international’s absence. Veteran Leon Balogun should continue as the central defensive cover for Propper and Souttar.
Midfield
The Gers are well-equipped deep down the midfield and the gaffer has done his best to manage their minutes. Connor Barron has made significant strides since his summer move from Aberdeen, and the youngster is expected to form a double pivot with Mohamed Diomande ahead of Kieran Dowell and Nicolas Raskin. Dowell and Raskin could be involved as substitutes considering the fixture congestion.
With Rabbi Matondo already ruled out for months, Oscar Cortes is the latest addition following a training injury sustained before their midweek trip to Sweden. Nedim Bajrami should keep his place down the left, also, Vaclav Cerny is tipped to get the nod over Ross McCausland or Hamza Igamane. Tom Lawrence must continue as the ‘number 10’ and exhibit his creative spark in and around the attacking third.
Attack
Irrespective of Danilo’s repeated injury struggles, Rangers have hardly missed the Brazilian’s services thanks to Cyriel Dessers’ scintillating scoring streak while spearheading the attack. Versatile Igamane could be another option if Clement takes the Nigerian off at some point in the second half.
