Celtic have carried on with a perfect record after the winter break, so Rangers now have a tough assignment on their hands as they travel to Pittodrie Stadium to take on Aberdeen. If Rangers lose this tie, one can claim that the title race is as good as over as Celtic can go up as many as nine points clear at the top of the league table.
The Dons are yet to lose to Rangers this season and Gerrard’s men will have to be at their best to inflict a defeat on Dereck McInnes’ side. The Bears are coming on the back of a thumping win against St. Mirren, but the game was marred by poor refereeing decisions as the home side got as many as four penalties. Rangers though wouldn’t mind a lucky break like that against Aberdeen as well.
Team News: Connor Goldson is a doubt for this tie, and even if he is fit, he is unlikely to be thrown straight away in a game of this magnitude. Eros Grezda, Graham Dorrans and Jamie Murphy are going to be unavailable for this encounter. Apart from that, Gerrard should have a strong squad to choose from ahead of this encounter.
Rangers Predicted Lineup Vs Aberdeen
Formation (4-3-3)
Defence
Allan McGregor had a comfortable game last time around, but he could have a busy evening against the Dons. Joe Worrall and Nikola Katic have seemingly done well together and have formed a decent understanding since the winter break. We expect the duo to start together. However, Gerrard’s rotation can strike again, and Gareth McAuley might get the nod because of his experience. Having said that, we want the manager to stick with the players who have played together for the last few games.
Borna Barisic and James Tavernier are nailed on starters in their respective flanks in the fullback positions. Both would bomb forward at every opportunity.
Midfield
We believe, Gerrard should go in with the midfield which did the job so well against Celtic at home and therefore the likes of Ryan Jack, Ross McCrorie and Scott Arfield should start in the centre of the park as part of a midfield three.
Attack
Daniel Candeias was left out from the weekend’s tie, but we expect him to start down the right in this game. Ryan Kent has been a revelation in the past few months, and he has started to create goal scoring opportunities as well. He should start down the left.
Gerrard will have a tough decision to make, but we expect the gaffer to go in with Alfredo Morelos up front. Jermain Defoe can always come on later on if the scores are tied or if Rangers are trailing.
