A commanding 4-2 win against league leaders Hearts was a statement from Rangers after a disappointing draw with ten-man Motherwell. But the Light Blues must not be complacent ahead of clashing heads with bottom-placed Livingston on Sunday afternoon. A winning streak would boost their confidence, with Celtic set for successive visits to Ibrox over the next couple of weekends.
Russel Martin grabbed his first league win as the Rangers boss when substitute Max Aarons scored an injury-time winner during their trip to Almondvale in September. Danny Rohl eventually replaced him after a series of dismal outcomes, but the German chief also relied on Mohamed Diomande’s late strike to seal all three points at Ibrox two months later. Livi need a Herculean effort to escape relegation, and the Light Blues must aim for a comprehensive victory, unlike this season’s past two meetings.
Predicted 4-2-2-2 Rangers Lineup To Face Livingston
Defence
Jack Butland has been majestic between the sticks, and his leadership traits from the last line of defence should help the Gers maintain their composure and shape.
Aarons is struggling with fitness, but Rohl is bolstered at the back following Dujon Sterling’s return after a long injury layoff. But the Englishman could make way for skipper James Tavernier, as his minutes must be managed carefully to avoid further setbacks. Tuur Rommens, who was excellent on the left against Hearts, deserves back-to-back starts ahead of Jayden Meghoma. John Souttar and Emmanuel Fernandez have restored stability in the heart of the backline, causing Nasser Djiga to lose his first-team status.
Midfield
Rohl has straightaway deployed Tochi Chukwuani deep down the midfield upon his January arrival from Sturm Graz. He must be lined up alongside Nicolas Raskin, who continues to impress with his all-round attributes. Connor Barron and Bailey Rice remain sidelined with knee and muscle injuries. However, the manager might bring in Mohamed Diomande and Thelo Aasgaard from the bench to add more firepower in the centre of the pitch.
Andres Skov Olsen showed his mastery from the right-hand flank during last weekend’s top-of-the-table battle. Mikey Moore has cemented his spot with his flair and finesse from the left, and the attacking pair must get the nod over Djeidi Gassama and Oliver Antman in their 4-2-2-2 formation.
Attack
Highly-rated Ryan Naderi struggled against the Jambos, yet he should feature up top for his energy and work ethic. Despite being criticised for his wastefulness, Youssef Chermiti once again delivered in a high-profile encounter by netting his first hat-trick in Rangers colours. Bojan Miovski, an unused substitute at Ibrox, could be brought in from the bench in West Lothian.
