Rangers have started their season well as they made it to the Europa League main draws after four gruelling rounds. They even opened their campaign with a win over Feyenoord last night. Even in the Premiership, they haven’t done too poorly as they have won four of their first five games. However, that one loss came against their arch-rivals Celtic, and that would have been disappointing for Gerrard.
Nevertheless, they will look to stay on Celtic’s heel as they travel to McDiarmid Park to take on St. Johnstone this weekend. The Saints are winless in the league so far, and they sit second from bottom, drawing three of their first five games. Rangers will undoubtedly go in as the favourites and Gerrard will hope that his team can get the three points without any fuss.
Team News: Rangers were a bit naive to rush Ryan Kent into action, and he suffered a hamstring injury against Livingston. Jordan Jones and Jon Flanagan are also out due to injury. Greg Stewart continues to remain a significant doubt as well.
Rangers Predicted Lineup Vs St. Johnstone
Formation (4-3-3)
Defence
Allan McGregor will be an obvious choice in goal for the Gers. Knowing Gerrard, he could tinker with backline again, and we might see Nikola Katic feature in this game ahead of Filip Helander who featured in the European tie. Connor Goldson should be able to keep his place in defence.
Captain James Tavernier will undoubtedly start on the right flank. Borna Barisic is going through a resurgence in his Rangers career, and he will look to continue his excellent work. The Croatian should start at left-back with Flanagan still out.
Midfield
Andy King could be given the nod to start ahead of Steven Davis in this tie. Joe Aribo who missed out against Feyenoord should be fresh and raring to go in this away game. He should feature in midfield. The other midfield spot could go to Ryan Jack, who is often the driving force in the middle.
Attack
With Kent and Jones injured, Ojo is expected to start on the left once again. On the right, Brandon Barker could be given the nod ahead of Scott Arfield. Barker’s preferred position is on the left, but he can easily slot in as a right-winger as well. His pace and directness could help Rangers in breaking down the Saints’ defence.
Gerrard could likely give Alfredo Morelos a breather, and Jermain Defoe might get the chance to lead the line in this clash.
