Celtic’s draw with league leaders Hearts has been a massive boost for Rangers in the title hunt. They are now within four points of the top of the table following a commanding 3-0 victory over Dundee. Although their majestic winning streak ended on Thursday night with a disappointing Europa League defeat against Porto, Danny Rohl must inspire his men to snatch all three points from the weekend’s tie against Hibernian at Easter Road.
However, it won’t be a stroll in the park for the Light Blues on Sunday afternoon despite dominating this fixture so far this season. They won all three meetings across competitions, but the previous contest in Edinburgh was a lucky escape, thanks to Jack Butland’s saved spot kick late in the match.
Predicted 4-3-3 Rangers Lineup To Face Hibernian
Defence
Butland was not at his best at Estadio Do Dragao. However, Hibs have yet to score against the Gers, with the Englishman showcasing his expertise between the sticks as highlighted above.
Rohl opted for a ‘back five’ in their final European outing, but he should revert to a four-man backline, restoring Jame Tavernier as a right-back. Fit-again John Souttar must replace Nasser Djiga to partner with Manny Fernandez in deep defence. The left fullback role belongs to Jayden Meghoma, as Tuur Rommens, their winter signing, is struggling for fitness. Max Aarons has been impressive of late, but the on-loan Bournemouth fullback might only be introduced as a second-half substitute.
Midfield
Tochi Chukwuani was handed a debut against the Dee. But the gaffer should opt for experience on the road and stick with Mohamed Diomande and Nicolas Raskin deep down the midfield. Thelo Aasgaard must return to the starting XI, thus offering flexibility in the middle of the park. Dropping Chukwuani in the wake of Connor Barron’s injury could leave them with no designated ‘number six’. Nevertheless, the expertise and chemistry of Raskin and Diomande should allow Rohl to tweak from a ‘double pivot’ to a three-man holding midfield. The Danish ace might be brought in from the bench, as they have already parted ways with Kieran Dowell.
Attack
The manager might face a selection dilemma high up the pitch upon the arrival of Andreas Skov Olsen. The on-loan Wolfsburg winger has been their most high-profile addition so far this month, and the flying form of Djeidi Gassama coule cost Mikey Moore his starting spot. In-demand Youssef Chermiti must spearhead the attack, and the likes of Moore, Nedim Bajrami, Oliver Antman, Danilo, Findlay Curtis and Bojan Miovski would also be there to make a difference as ‘super subs’.
