Rangers have it all to do when they take on Celtic in their final game of the year. The Gers have dominated quite a few games in the Premiership so far but have frequently lacked the cutting edge to come up with all three points. The Hibs held them to two draws in a short space of time and Celtic are definitely in the driving seat after opening up a three-point lead on the table.
Team News
Steven Gerrard has been missing some of his major players and the likes of Ryan Kent, Gareth McAuley and Ryan Jack are doubtful for the Old Firm derby. However, he has called his players to play through the pain barrier as he said (Daily Record), ”Sometimes you have to dig deep into the reserves and play through it (Pain). If the injury doesn’t let you do that, tell me. Look me in the eye and say, ‘I can’t do it’. Then we’ll go with what we’ve got. Sometimes you have to go into football matches and play through a little bit of pain, especially the magnitude of the game that’s coming up.”
It could be touch and go with the three mentioned names and they are likely to be assessed just before the matchday. Apart from that, Borna Barisic, Graham Dorrans and Jamie Murphy are long-term absentees. Connor Goldson is also doubtful for this clash. As of now, there is no news of Scott Arfield being fit for the derby.
Rangers Predicted Lineup vs Rangers
Formation (4-3-3)
Defence
Allan McGregor is a nailed on starter in goal, and he might have to bring in his ‘A game’ against a very good and attacking Celtic side. The centre-back pairing can go anyway this weekend as Goldson and McAuley are a doubt. However, we hope that the Gers can get their best side out to create a spectacle. Therefore we are going in with Goldson and McAuley at the back.
James Tavernier will have a tough time while defending down the right. He needs to have a good game if the Gers want to come away with three points. Same goes for his other fullback partner who is likely going to be Andy Halliday. He would have the task of keeping James Forrest quiet from the left.
Midfield
Ross McCrorie has shown his worth as a defensive midfielder, and he should start in that role once again. Again, we are expecting Ryan Jack to be fit for this tie, and he has been the best player for Rangers apart from Morelos in the past month or so. Lassana Coulibaly should keep his place in midfield as there are no other alternatives for Gerrard.
Attack
Ryan Kent is close to coming back, but he hasn’t been involved in the matchday squad for quite some time now. Therefore, Glenn Middleton could once again start from the left. There are no selection headaches on the right flank as Daniel Candeias is a nailed on starter. Alfredo Morelos is once again expected to lead the line for the Gers.
