A massive win over famous rivals Celtic brought Rangers back in the title hunt before the winter break. Steven Gerrard, the Gers gaffer enhanced the squad strength by wrapping up the signings of Jermain Defoe and Steven Davis. But a defeat against Kilmarnock was certainly not in the plan, and the Bears must look to bounce back now while locking horns with Livingston this weekend at the Tony Macaroni Arena.
Gerrard, although doing a decent job at the Ibrox, has to be annoyed with Rangers’ unpredictability as well as inconsistency. They suffered a dreadful 1-0 defeat away at Livingston earlier this season and must avoid a similar fate on Sunday evening to stand a chance of claiming the title.
Team News
Despite having a lengthy break, Rangers are still without a few of their key resources through injury woes. Graham Dorrans is still recovering from his long-standing knee problem whereas Eros Grezda is ruled out for a few weeks with an ankle injury. Connor Goldson is sidelined due to his foot injury. Borna Barisic, although recovered from a hamstring strain, is doubtful for the tie having failed to make it to the matchday squad versus Killie. Jamie Murphy remains the other long-term absentee after rupturing his cruciate ligament back in August.
Manager: Steven Gerrard
Formation
A 4-3-3 setup earned Gerrard enormous success in the early weeks of his managerial regime. But a 4-1-2-1-2 to incorporate both Jermain Defoe and Alfredo Morelos upfront did not work out on Wednesday night at Rugby Park. The gaffer preferred a midfield diamond and should try it out once more before making yet another tactical alteration.
Defence
Veteran Allan McGregor has been a revelation in the Rangers goal since returning to his boyhood club and is set to retain his place between the sticks for the weekend encounter.
Skipper James Tavernier should retain his usual right-back role but must concentrate more on his defensive duties despite being an influence in the attacking third. Versatile Andy Halliday is being deployed as a left fullback ahead of Jon Flanagan and Borna Barisic. The central defensive pair of Gareth McAuley and Joe Worrall failed to convince in the absence of Connor Goldson. Gerrard needs to find a solution at the earliest and should hand Nikola Katic a start ahead of McAuley considering his excellent form earlier this campaign.
Midfield
A midfield diamond must contain Ryan Jack at the base due to his work rate and combative approach. He would not only marshall the backline but also dictate the flow from a deep-lying role. Ryan Kent should operate from the right-hand side whereas veteran Steven Davis must be allowed to feature on the left with a view of switching to the centre depending upon the shape of their midfield. Scott Arfield should occupy an advanced role to combine with the centre-forward duo high up the pitch.
Attack
The ecstasy of Jermain Defoe’s debut goal was spoiled entirely due to the terrible outcome versus Kilmarnock. But the gaffer should field both Defoe and Alfredo Morelos upfront to utilise the best weapons of his attacking armoury. Kyle Lafferty is yet to impress despite some promising cameo appearances and would continue to deputise for the striking duo.
