Rangers have hardly shown signs of improvement under Philippe Clement, but they stepped up and delivered in Europe once again by grabbing a 1-1 draw against Olympiacos on Thursday night. While their Premiership form has been underwhelming, the gaffer must secure a result against Hearts on Sunday evening.
The Jambos, on the other hand, are struggling at the wrong end of the league standings. It was a stalemate at Tynecastle when these two sides clashed heads in the opening gameweek, but the appointment of Neil Critchley as the new chief has galvanized the Gorgie Boys in their bid to protect the top-flight status along with a strong run in the UEFA Europa Conference League. Rangers might not find it easy at Ibrox if they continue to underperform in the Premiership.
Predicted 4-2-3-1 Rangers Lineup To Face Hearts
Defence
Jack Butland is enjoying his ‘number 1’ status between the sticks, and the English custodian should keep his place over Liam Kelly unless there is any fitness issue before the outing.
Clement made a surprise call against Olympiacos dropping James Tavernier in favour of Dujon Sterling. Sterling was replaced by Neraysho Kasanwirjo early into the second half, and Tavernier, the first-choice right fullback for almost a decade, was deployed from the left minutes before the final whistle. However, the Belgian boss might restore the skipper against Hearts to pursue his rotation policy. Robin Propper slipped down the pecking order but was handed a start versus the Greek giants alongside John Souttar. Souttar is expected to feature against his former employers, but the Dutchman could make way for veteran Leon Balogun in the heart of the backline. Jefte has cemented his spot down the left and the young Brazilian must deliver another composed performance ahead of a much-deserved two-week break.
Midfield
Connor Barron has emerged as a vital cog in Rangers midfield. He is featuring week in, week out and the young Scotsman is likely to make his senior Scotland debut having been called up in the camp for the upcoming international fixtures. Nicolas Raskin has regained his fitness overcoming injury concerns and the Belgian midfield ace should form a ‘double pivot’ while partnering Barron in the middle of the park.
While Oscar Cortes and Rabbi Matondo are working towards recovery from long injury layoffs, Vaclav Cerny and Nedim Bajrami have been exquisite down the flanks since completing their summer transfers. Mohamed Diomande has featured as an advanced playmaker amid Tom Lawrence’s absence, but the Gers chief should give a nod to Ianis Hagi who is working towards regaining his lost status at Ibrox.
Attack
Cyriel Dessers is back among goals and the Nigerian hitman must spearhead the attack ahead of Hamza Igamane and Danilo.
