Rangers came back to winning ways as they dismantled Livingston three goals to nil on Sunday. The Gers are finally going to get a chance to play in the Scottish Cup against Cowdenbeath as the earlier game was postponed due to unfavourable ground conditions.
The tie against Cowdenbeath was supposed to be the first game for Steven Gerrard’s side after the winter break, and everyone expected Jermain Defoe and Steven Davis to make their debut. Neither of them were involved from the start against Livingston, so there is every chance that the new signings can start this game.
Team News
Steven Gerrard has no major fresh injury concerns. Connor Goldson has missed the action after the break because of a foot injury, and he continues to be a doubt for this game. Albanian international Eros Grezda is sidelined due to an ankle injury. Jamie Murphy and Graham Dorrans are long term absentees.
Rangers Predicted Lineup Vs Cowdenbeath
Formation (4-4-2)
Defence
Wes Foderingham should be starting in goal in this cup competition. Nikola Katic who fell down the pecking order came up with an assured performance against Livingston, and we believe the manager should continue with him in the heart of the defence. To partner him, veteran defender Gareth McAuley should come in.
Down the left, Andy Halliday should get a go-ahead of Borna Barisic who has been injury prone. Therefore it doesn’t make sense to start him in a game of this nature. Jon Flanagan might get a start ahead of James Tavernier in the right back spot.
Midfield
Former Southampton captain Steven Davis should come in midfield for this tie. Lassana Coulibaly who was woefully out of form before the winter break might get a chance to showcase his worth. He could start in midfield.
Out wide, Glenn Middleton should start ahead of Ryan Kent on the left. Daniel Candeias could start on the right flank. The Portuguese has been impressive, and his work rate and pressing is a delight to watch.
Attack
Gerrard had earlier indicated that the signing of Defoe gives him a chance to play in a different formation. He was quoted as saying (The Express), ”Jermain gives us the option of playing two up front, whether that be 4-4-2, a diamond, 3-5-2… it gives us that luxury. Kyle also does that we can go with a target man and a smaller guy around him.”
We feel this is the perfect game to try new tactics and we might very well see Jermain Defoe and Kyle Lafferty start together up front.
