Rangers take on Hearts on Sunday afternoon, in the Scottish League Cup semi-final at Hampden Park.
It’s a chance for the Gers to right the wrongs of last season when they fell 1-0 at this stage to Derek McInnes’ Aberdeen.
In a remarkable turn of events, this time around, the opposition will be managerless after Craig Levein was relieved from his duties on Thursday afternoon [Heartsfc.co.uk].
Stevie G will know that despite the Jambos’ recent struggles, they do have dangerous players. They showed that only a fortnight ago by holding his side to a draw at Tynecastle.
The manager will be looking for a much-improved performance this time around, with considerably more chances created.
How will Rangers set up?
Goalkeeper Allan McGregor’s participation is still uncertain. He missed the midweek clash against Ross County with a knock, but Gerrard has rated the veteran’s chances of making it for Sunday at ‘better than 50-50’ [Rangers.co.uk].
If he’s passed fit, he will come into the starting XI. Should he miss out, Wes Foderingham will continue as an able deputy.
After a clean sheet against the Staggies, the back four is likely to stay the same with Borna Barisic fit despite limping off in that game.
There’s likely to be one change in midfield, with Steven Davis returning to oust either Joe Aribo or Glen Kamara. Given Aribo’s effectiveness in midweek when he registered one assist and was involved in two of the other three goals, he’s likely to have done enough to retain his place.
Alfredo Morelos is set to lead the line, but there’s a degree of uncertainty about his support act.
As long as he is fully fit after sitting out in midweek, Ryan Kent should start on the left flank.
That leaves Scott Arfield, Sheyi Ojo and Greg Stewart fighting it out to start on the right side.
Gerrard tends to back Arfield on big occasions, but he has looked somewhat off the pace in recent weeks. Ojo is also on a lengthy run without scoring, although he did put in an improved display against Ross County.
We’re plucking for the creativity of Stewart, though, as something of a luxury pick in the quest to break down the Edinburgh outfit.
Rangers Predicted XI vs Hearts 03/11/2019 – Hampden Park
GK – Allan McGregor
RB – James Tavernier
CB – Connor Goldson
CB – Filip Helander
LB – Borna Barisic
CDM – Ryan Jack
CM – Steven Davis
CM – Joe Aribo
RF – Greg Stewart
LF – Ryan Kent
ST – Alfredo Morelos
