A semi-final of the Scottish Cup on Sunday between two arch rivals which go by the name of Celtic and Rangers at the Hampden Park: what more could one expect for a crunchy weekend? An unparalleled class and flair still exist in the Scottish football and without any shadow of a doubt, the Old Firm derby is an encounter which does send a shiver or two down the spine.
While the Bhoys would be looking forward to earning a domestic treble after having clinched the Scottish Premiership and League Cup already, the Gers would seek some consolation by spoiling such aspirations of Brendan Rodgers’ side and making a progress to the final. Under the tutelage of Pedro Caixinha, this is how Rangers might dish out their starting line-up against Celtic.
Defence
Left-back, Lee Wallace, is still out as he is recovering from his hernia injury, which implies that the talented Myles Beerman will start the proceedings once again in the left-back slot. Danny Wilson and David Bates are likely to be paired up to meet the central defensive needs.
Rob Kiernan and Clint Hill are unlikely to be started at the heart of the backline after failing to feature in their side’s last three outings due to knee and hamstring problems respectively and in the right-back position, we expect James Tavernier to be manoeuvred.
No surprises are anticipated as far as the goalkeeper is concerned as Wes Foderingham should be starting under the bar.
Midfield
The duo of Jason Holt and Jon Toral should be finding themselves stationed in the middle of the park owing to the growth of their stature ever since the reign of the former Al Gharafa boss commenced and the central attacking position midfield region is likely to be handed to Emerson Hyndman.
Forward
Kenny Miller is in a decent touch, having scored 3 times in his last 2 games and is likely to lead the setup of the Teddy Bears. Miller is exactly the brand of poacher which Rangers need in such a high-intensity fixture and on the right wing, Martyn Waghorn should be getting the nod to start the proceedings.
For the left winger’s role, we believe that Barrie McKay should start despite his sporadic form as the Portuguese manager would want to hand him to fire in the business end of the season, for he does have all the requisite qualities to ply his trade week in and week out.
Predicted Line-Up:
