Rangers are back in action on Saturday, in the first of their post-split fixtures.
They travel to Tynecastle for an early kick-off, as they look to make it four wins out of four against Hearts this season.
Last time out, the Gers dispatched Motherwell 3-0 at Fir Park. Therefore, despite having time off to reflect on where things have fallen short this season, it’s unlikely Steven Gerrard will make too many changes to his side.
There are two conundrums in defence.
Firstly, it’s a straight call between Nikola Katic and Joe Worrall to partner Connor Goldson at centre-half.
You’ve got to think that with Worrall’s return to Nottingham Forest imminent, the towering 6ft 4′ Katic will retain his place.
At left-back, Jon Flanagan, Borna Barisic and Andy Halliday are all competing for a spot. Barisic has undoubtedly been the first choice when fully fit this season.
However, recent encouraging displays from Flanagan and praise from his manager [RangersTV] may put him in pole position for the weekend.
Finally, one young Ger is in scintillating form at the minute and could force Gerrard’s hand. Glenn Middleton has scored four times in his last two matches for the Reserves,
With Ryan Kent still suspended and Arfield set to continue in a more advanced role, the 19-year-old could come in for Daniel Candeias.
Alfredo Morelos is also still banned, so Jermain Defoe should continue to lead the line.
Rangers Predicted XI vs Hearts 20/04/2019:
(The Gers are adopting a more fluid system at the minute, so the positions below are included only to provide a rough outline of the predicted shape)
GK – Allan McGregor
RB – James Tavernier
CB – Connor Goldson
CB – Nikola Katic
LB – Jon Flanagan
CDM – Glen Kamara
CM – Ryan Jack
CM – Steven Davis
RAM – Scott Arfield
LAM – Glenn Middleton
ST – Jermain Defoe
