The football season in Europe will have its final lap once the club campaign resumes this weekend post-international break. Rangers, who are chasing their bitter rivals Celtic in the Premiership race, must maintain the winning streak against Dundee United. The Gers will host the Tangerines who are rock-bottom in the league standings, however, the battle of survival might push them to cause an upset on Saturday afternoon.
The Light Blues have won on both occasions when these two sides clashed heads earlier this season. It was an edgy win for Rangers in their previous Ibrox meeting, but the resurgence under Michael Beale should see them scripting a commanding victory against Jim Goodwin’s army.
Predicted 4-2-3-1 Rangers Lineup To Face Dundee United
Defence
Rangers must sort out their goalkeeper conundrum in the summer by roping in a younger name, but they should rely on veteran Allan McGregor for the remainder of the campaign. The 41-year-old Scotsman is at the twilight of an illustrious career, yet he offers more between the sticks compared to fellow compatriot Jon McLaughlin.
Skipper James Tavernier leads by example with his relentless runs, attacking expertise, set-piece excellence and dynamic presence. He must keep operating from the right-hand flank, also left fullback Borna Barisic is likely to reclaim his starting role after representing Croatia in the UEFA Euro Qualifiers. He missed the Motherwell game due to family reasons, however, his availability could cost Ridvan Yilmaz his place versus United. Although they are boosted by John Souttar’s return, the central defensive pairing of Connor Goldson and Ben Davies must remain unchanged.
Midfield
Beale tweaked the setup to a 4-3-1-2 on a few occasions but is expected to bank on a ‘double pivot’ deep down the midfield. The addition of Nicolas Raskin has bolstered them in the centre of the pitch and the Belgian ace might be deployed alongside Ryan Jack who made it to Steve Clarke’s Scotland squad for the Euro qualifiers. John Lundstram is struggling to reclaim his composure following a brief injury layoff, and therefore, is tipped to be involved as a substitute similar to Glen Kamara.
Fashion Sakala has been in exquisite form for both club and country. He must exhibit his flair and finesse down the right, whereas Ryan Kent must leave an impact with his dribbles and directness from the opposite flank. Todd Cantwell has impressed in recent games after a slow start to life in Glasgow and his efficiency as a ‘number 10’ could earn him a first-team status ahead of Malik Tillman or Ianis Hagi. Scott Arfield and Scott Wright could be introduced as ‘super subs’ at a later stage of the contest.
Attack
Antonio Colak is the preferred ‘number 9’ over Alfredo Morelos who has struggled all season due to form and fitness woes. His contract expires in a couple of months and the gaffer must find an able alternative to challenge and cover Colak high up the pitch.
