And then there were five. Five meaningless games with a manager who won’t be in the role next season for Rangers.
The current Rangers squad have struggled to motivate themselves to play for vital points so, it is highly unlikely that they will motivate themselves to play for pride.
If anything, winning the last five games would only rub salt into the wounds, especially if the season ends and Rangers have a 3-1 winning ratio over Celtic and still finish over 10 points behind.
Up first, is a trip to Paisley to face St Mirren who have little to play for given the gap to the European places above them, however, Stephen Robinson sides are never a pushover and have already beaten the Light Blues twice this season, including at Ibrox.
A bruising encounter should be expected and so should a change to the Rangers starting XI.
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Predicted Rangers XI vs St Mirren
Liam Kelly has done ok in goals, however, Jack Butland is Rangers No.1 and should be restored between now and the end of the season to let him rediscover his confidence – he has also been open about his dislike of sitting on the bench.
The 3-5-2 shape should also be binned by Barry Ferguson with injuries restricting the full-back options to James Tavernier and Jefte.
In the middle, John Souttar and Clinton Nsiala performed admirably against Athletic Club and should be given a run of games together.
As with the defence, there aren’t a great deal of options in midfield, however, there is one change that should be made.
A flatter three should see Nicolas Raskin and Mohamed Diomande joined by Bailey Rice, who has done little wrong when given a chance to play.
Start the teenage midfielder for the next five games and give him a proper chance.
We know what players like Connor Barron and Ianis Hagi can do, but the latter might not be here next season.
The forward line should also see a couple of changes.
Who should play up front for Rangers against St Mirren?
There will be hopes of a permanent deal for Vaclav Cerny so he should keep his place on the right.
On the left, Oscar Cortes has been in full training for months now, he isn’t going to rediscover his form if he isn’t playing.
Through the middle, it’s an easy choice between Hamza Igamane and Danilo, with Cyriel Dessers having had more than enough chances.
Igamane was the highlight of the season playing as the central striker and has the all-round game to lead the line.
Danilo though, deserves a lot more game time than he has been getting.
