A spirited display on Wednesday night went in vain when a ten-man Rangers conceded three late goals against Napoli. A lot of positives to take from the tie ahead of hosting Dundee United on Saturday afternoon. The last gameweek contest against Aberdeen was called off due to the Queen’s death and the Gers must regroup themselves to secure all three points overcoming three successive defeats prior to the international break.
The Tangerines are rock bottom in the Premiership standings. They are the only side not to win a league game so far this season and a shambolic 9-0 defeat against Celtic at Tannadice Park exposed their limitations all over the pitch. The Light Blues, therefore, should aim for a commanding victory to uplift their confidence.
Predicted 4-2-3-1 Rangers Lineup To Face Dundee United
Defence
40-year-old Allan McGregor was exquisite against Napoli, but the gaffer Giovanni van Bronckhorst should restore Jon McLaughlin between the sticks.
Skipper James Tavernier must be menacing from the right with his overlapping runs, pinpoint crosses and set-piece attribute. Borna Barisic has been consistent from the left as he has balanced his game expertly between attack and defence. James Sands received marching orders against Napoli due to two bookings in quick succession, but he is eligible to feature in domestic games alongside Connor Goldson in the heart of the backline.
Midfield
The Dutch boss has tried various combinations but is yet to figure out a stable midfield set-up. John Lundstram is irreplaceable in the centre of the pitch and the gaffer should opt for Ryan Jack who was sacrificed versus Napoli minutes after Sands’ dismissal. The pair must form a ‘double pivot’ similar to the previous campaign, whereas the likes of Glen Kamara and Steven Davis could be involved from the bench.
Amid injuries to Tom Lawrence, Ianis Hagi and Alex Lowry, the manager should rely on Malik Tillman as a ‘number 10’. He is expected to be accompanied by Ryan Kent and Rabbi Matondo from the flanks, and also the likes of Scott Arfield, Scott Wright and Fashion Sakala might play their part as ‘super subs’.
Attack
Alfredo Morelos looked sharp high up the pitch following a surprise start ahead of Antonio Colak. But the latter could be brought back in the starting XI to regain the rhythm as the Gers’ ‘number 9’. The frustration continues over Kemar Roofe’s fitness given his unavailability since the inception of the 2022-23 campaign.
