Rangers boss Michael Beale demanded a reaction from his men following a home defeat against Celtic in the Old Firm derby. They came back strongly on Saturday afternoon by clinching a 2-0 victory versus St Johnstone and the result at McDiarmid Park should boost their confidence before hosting Real Betis at Ibrox.
These two sides would begin their Europa League hunt on Thursday night. While the Light Blues are still undergoing transition amid a summer overhaul, Los Verdiblancos must step up their game after back-to-back heavy defeats on the road against Barcelona and Athletic Bilbao. However, the mastery of Manuel Pellegrini could see them script a turnaround unless the Light Blues rectify their wastefulness in the attacking third.
Predicted 4-2-3-1 Rangers Lineup To Face Real Betis
Defence
The wait continues for Robby McCrorie who remains the understudy to Jack Butland between the sticks. The Englishman has replaced Allan McGregor as the Gers ‘number 1’ after completing a Bosman switch earlier this summer.
Skipper James Tavernier leaves an impact almost on every occasion and his presence down the right would offer them a creative outlet thanks to his crossing, shooting, set-piece and goal-scoring traits. Connor Goldson is expected to keep his place in the heart of the backline, but the gaffer might opt for John Souttar over Ben Davies even though the latter delivered a headstrong performance over the weekend. Borna Barisic would reclaim his left-back role having been rested against the Saints in favour of fit-again Ridvan Yilmaz.
Midfield
Although Rangers have ample depth in the centre of the pitch, Beale is yet to figure out his best possible formation, but a ‘double pivot’ makes more sense given the type of options they have in their ranks. Nicolas Raskin, who looked more comfortable down the deep, could partner with Ryan Jack ahead of John Lundstram and Jose Cifuentes.
Abdallah Sima and Rabbi Matondo enjoyed an impressive cameo against St. Johnstone. Sima should replace Sam Lammers down the right, whereas Rabbi Matondo is likely to feature from the left allowing Tom Lawrence to occupy the ‘number 10’ spot. The Welshman has been in blistering form since returning from his long injury layoff, and therefore, would be more effective as a midfield attacker amid the injury absence of Todd Cantwell.
Attack
Danilo fractured his cheekbone against the Saints and is ruled out for several weeks. Cyriel Dessers should return to the starting XI after a difficult start to life at his new club. Kemar Roofe could be involved as a second-half substitute considering his flexibility and poaching attributes.
