Rangers comfortably beat NK Maribor on Thursday night, but what changes will Steven Gerrard make to his Rangers side today?
The Ibrox outfit were sensational on Thursday night, and therefore dropping anyone will come across as harsh. However, it’s essential that Gerrard continues to keep a freshness about the squad.
With Celtic having lost 1-0 to Hearts at Tynecastle, it’s imperative Rangers keep the pressure on with a win today.
So how does the Gers manager go about making sure his team is fresh?
For a start, a debut for new-man Borsa Barisic would be a welcome change. Many Rangers fans are excited about the Croatian signing up from NK Osijek, and he should have a big part to play against the Buddies. This therefore could see James Tavernier pushed forward and Flanagan switched to the right. Or it may even mean that Flanagan is rested and Barisic is simply a like-for-like replacement.
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In the midfield, Ross McCrorie is surely deserving of a chance to shine. The midfielder has struggled for game-time after a hugely successful campaign last term. He could step in for Ryan Jack/Lassana Coulibaly to help keep one of them fresh for Tuesday. Opportunities have been limited for young McCrorie, but games like this one should be the time for the manager to give him a chance.
Umar Sadiq has been prowling the sidelines for the last couple of matches. He looked a real handful on his debut against Wigan Athletic, and fully deserves an opportunity in the side. With Alfredo Morelos in terrific form, it’s since been difficult for Gerrard to drop the Colombian. However, Sadiq could easily play alongside Morelos today or give Gerrard the luxury of resting his star striker.
These are several of the options available to Gerrard should he wish to freshen things up at Ibrox this afternoon. St Mirren will provide some dangerous moments, and the Gers will need to be switched on at all times.
PREDICTED XI:
Allan McGregor (GK)
James Tavernier (RB)
Connor Goldson (CB)
Nikola Katic (CB)
Borna Barisic (LB)
Lassana Coulibaly (CDM)
Ross McRorie (CDM)
Daniel Candeias (RM)
Scott Arfield (CAM)
Ryan Kent (LM)
Umar Sadiq (ST)