Cerny To Return? | Predicted 4-2-3-1 Rangers Lineup To Face Dundee FC

An edgy but crucial away victory against Dundee United restored rhythm in the Rangers camp following a dismal Old Firm defeat before the international break. They are now ready to host the Tangerines’ city rivals Dundee on Saturday evening for the League Cup quarter-final contest.

The reigning Scottish League Cup champions knocked out another Premiership side St Johnstone in the previous round to set up a clash with the Dark Blues. Tony Docherty’s men had a relatively comfortable outing in the second round when they grabbed an emphatic 6-1 win against minnows Airdrieonians. Despite suffering their first league defeat of the season versus Ross County, the determined Dee could bounce back this weekend given the Gers’ lack of consistency so far this campaign.

Predicted 4-2-3-1 Rangers Lineup To Face Dundee 

Defence

The Gers roped in Liam Kelly on a Bosman during the summer window. But the ‘number 1’ role belongs to Jack Butland who has so far featured between the sticks in all competitions.

Although they will travel to Sweden for their midweek Europa League fixture against Malmo, gaffer Philippe Clement must refrain from rotating the squad considering Dundee’s ability to cause an upset at Ibrox. Skipper James Tavernier could keep his place down the right ahead of Neraysho Kasanwirjo, also, the persistent injury problem of Ridvan Yilmaz has handed an opportunity to Jefte to cement his left fullback status. Robin Propper and John Souttar showed resilience and composure against Dundee United, and the Belgian boss, desperately looking for stability in deep defence, might stick with the pair irrespective of veteran Leon Balogun’s availability.

Rangers forward Cyriel Dessers scores a goal against Dundee
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND – MAY 14: Cyriel Dessers of Rangers heads in his team’s 2nd goal during the Cinch Scottish Premiership match between Rangers FC and Dundee FC at Ibrox Stadium on May 14, 2024 in Glasgow, Scotland.(Photo by Steve Welsh/Getty Images)

Midfield

Rangers have ample options in the centre of the pitch with Connor Barron, Mohamed Diomande, Nicolas Raskin, Dujon Sterling and Kieran Dowell challenging each other for first-team slots. Raskin and Sterling should be deployed as ‘double pivot’ after appearing as second-half substitutes at Tannadice Park.
Vaclav Cerny missed the Dundee United game due to a mystery virus but is tipped to be available for the League Cup encounter. The Czechia International should feature from the right and the deadline-day recruit Nedim Bajrami is expected to make his full debut as a left midfielder. Tom Lawrence has impressed lately after a slow start and the experienced Welshman must offer a bit more work rate while operating as an attacking playmaker. Oscar Cortes, Hamza Igamane and Ross McCausland could be involved at some point as second-half substitutes.

Attack

Cyriel Dessers has exhibited his scoring expertise as an outright ‘number 9’ and the Nigerian centre-forward would once again spearhead the Gers attack amid injury woes to Danilo.

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