Rangers have been given a big boost with the news that Livingston’s Dolly Menga is suspended for the trip to Ibrox.
The Livi forward has been charged for headbutting Celtic’s Ryan Christie last weekend. Livingston drew 0-0 at home to Celtic, a result that allowed Rangers to come to within two points of their rivals.
Thanks to the headbutt on Christie, however, Menga won’t be available for Livingston next Saturday. Instead, it’s likely Gary Holt goes with the relatively untested Steve Lawson.
The Rangers defence had a torrid time trying to deal with Menga at the Tony Macaroni Arena. The narrow, plastic pitch played into the striker’s hands, and he scored the winner that day too.
Connor Goldson was partnered with Joe Worrall at the heart of that Gers back-line. Neither convinced against the big Belgian, and Menga looked a real handful.
A different game at Ibrox
It would’ve been a huge surprise if he had the same effect at Ibrox, however. Despite holding the ball up so successfully in Livingston, it would’ve been a lot harder on the bigger pitch.
What it does do regardless, however, is seriously dent Livingston’s chances at Ibrox. Lawson doesn’t pose anywhere near the same threat, but Goldson and Worrall will have to perform much better than they did back in early October regardless.
Of course, Steven Gerrard may not even go with that particular back-line. Nikola Katic and Gareth McAuley are the other two choices for Gerrard, who’s yet to select his best centre-back partnership.
In terms of Rangers’ team-selection even this early on, they’ll be hoping Borna Barisic is back in time for Livingston’s visit. The Croatian has been struggling with a knee injury in recent times, with Andy Halliday deputising well in his absence.
In the meantime, Rangers’ defence will be pleased that Menga won’t be making the journey to Ibrox. It’s one less problem to think about as the club continues to build on their momentum.
