Rangers will host Kilmarnock next in the Scottish Premiership after bowing out of the League Cup semi-final. Kilmarnock currently sits above the Gers in the table, but Steven Gerrard and his men can go above them if all three points can be ensured in this game.
Gerrard has already sent a warning to his players after the defeat against Aberdeen as he asked the players to stand up and be counted as otherwise he would look for other players who can deliver in the big games. The Gers are having an issue in coming up with consistent performance as there have been occasions when they have caught the eye but often they have flattered to deceive especially away from home.
The Bears have usually done well against Killie as they have lost just eight games in the 78 times they have faced each other. However, the visiting team would be looking to pile more pressure on Gerrard and his men by taking something from this tough away tie.
Team News
Rangers
Ovie Ejaria is a doubt with an ankle knock. Croatian left-back Borna Barisic is going to be out for a couple of weeks with a muscle problem while Graham Dorrans and Jamie Murphy (both knee) are both out due to long-term injury.
Kilmarnock
Jordan Jones is going to be back after a two-match ban. Defender Kirk Broadfoot is not expected to be ready in time for this game because of a chronic back issue.
Predicted Lineup
Rangers
McGregor, Halliday, Goldson, Worrall, Tavernier, Rossiter, Coulibaly, Kent, Arfield, Candeias, Morelos
Kilmarnock
MacDonald, O’Donnell, Findlay, S Boyd, Taylor, Power, Tshibola, Dicker, Enobakhare, Brophy, Stewart
Key Men
Rangers
Alfredo Morelos was a big miss in the League cup semi-final as the Colombian missed the game due to suspension. He is expected to be back to lead the line, and the Gers are going to be heavily dependent on him to find the back of the net.
Apart from the Colombian, Ryan Kent is going to be another significant attacking threat, and he is expected to keep the Killie defenders busy with his pacy runs and tricks down the left flank.
Kilmarnock
Goalkeeper Jamie MacDonald might have to bring his A game as the Gers would be expected to dominate the proceedings as they are at home and he can expect a busy evening in goal.
Up front Birmingham City loanee, Greg Stewart is going to be a significant threat for the Gers defence. The forward has already scored thrice and assisted four times in seven games and he would have to take his chances well whenever he is presented with an opportunity to score.
Odds
Rangers Win: 1.44
Draw: 4.33
Kilmarnock Win: 7.00
