Rangers are the runaway Premiership leaders following their massive victory against Old Firm rivals Celtic last weekend. They have maintained an unbeaten league record so far this campaign but, at the same time, are cautious ahead of visiting Aberdeen on Sunday afternoon. Their dreadful January run shattered the title dreams a year ago and Steven Gerrard, therefore, should be desperate not to repeat the same mistake versus the Dons at Pittodrie.
Derek McInnes’ men have often troubled the Gers in recent years and are upbeat once more to seek revenge of their 4-0 Ibrox defeat back in November. The Reds have not been beaten in the league ever since, and the challenge would be sterner for the Glasgow giants who are anxious over the availability of an array of key personnel amid fitness concerns.
4-3-3 Rangers Predicted Lineup To Face Aberdeen
Defence
Although the gaffer was rotating in the early weeks, the excellence and prowess of 39-year-old Allan McGregor between the sticks make him irreplaceable and inestimably precious. Jon McLaughlin needs to stay patient and be the understudy for the time being.
Skipper James Tavernier is undoubtedly the league’s prime player of the season candidate. The right fullback is not only performing his defensive duties but also scoring goals as well as creating chances with his relentless runs down the wide areas. Filip Helander deputised for Leon Balogun during the latter’s brief injury spell, but the Nigerian’s availability should see him pairing up with the ever-present Connor Goldson in the heart of the backline. Borna Barisic, with his marauding movements and set-piece traits, must occupy the left-back role ahead of young Calvin Bassey.
Midfield
Veteran midfield duo Ryan Jack and Scott Arfield are still in the sidelines with their respective knee and ankle strains (as reported by the Scotsman). There’s little scope for rotation in the middle of the park, and the manager must rely on Steven Davis’ experience over summer recruit Bongani Zungu who is still adjusting to the demands of the Scottish game. Joe Aribo and Glen Kamara have been majestic this season and should retain their place.
Attack
A thigh problem forced Kemar Roofe to make way for Ianis Hagi on Derby day during the half-time break. He is out for this encounter as Gerrard confirmed today that he is out for atleast a couple of games. The manager has plenty of attacking options to select from and should start with Hagi down the right.
Ryan Kent would keep on threatening the Dons’ defence with his pace, power and dribbling attributes, whereas the presence of Alfredo Morelos is expected high up the pitch even though the Columbian has not matched the numbers of his past three seasons. Cedric Itten, Jermain Defoe and Brandon Barker are likely to be involved at some stage depending upon the game’s momentum and mood.
