Rangers Predicted XI for Boxing Day Premiership clash against Kilmarnock

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Rangers take on Kilmarnock at Ibrox on Boxing Day in a must-win Premiership fixture.

Killie are currently managerless and in the midst of a shocking run of form. They’ve won just one of their last nine matches and lost their third game in a row at Motherwell on Saturday afternoon.

The Gers are coming into this one in much better spirits, following 2-0 and 3-0 wins at Fir Park and Easter Road respectively.

Given that strong recent form and the fact that injuries are still affecting the squad, it’s unlikely that Steven Gerrard will make many changes to his starting XI.

In fact, we’re predicting just the one.

Allan McGregor will continue in goals and the back four is likely to remain unchanged. Filip Helander is out until 2020 so Nikola Katic is set to partner Connor Goldson, while Borna Barisic should continue despite being on the receiving end of some brutal challenges against Hibs.

Gerrard suggested that Steven Davis could be back available for this one following a calf injury [RangersTV], but given the current form of Ryan Jack, Glen Kamara and Scott Arfield, there’s no need to rush him back, with a spot on the bench more likely than a start.

Joe Aribo and Ryan Kent both scored in the win over Hibs and were substituted in the second half to save their legs. They should continue in the right and left advanced roles respectively.

The only change is likely to be the return of Alfredo Morelos following suspension. Jermain Defoe was praised for his ‘world-class’ play following his goal on Friday night, but he’s highly unlikely the keep out 27-goal El Bufalo, who will lead the line.

Rangers Predicted XI for Premiership clash vs Kilmarnock (H) – 26/12/2019

GK – Allan McGregor 

RB – James Tavernier 

CB – Connor Goldson 

CB – Nikola Katic 

LB – Borna Barisic 

CDM – Glen Kamara 

CM – Scott Arfield 

CM – Ryan Jack 

RF – Joe Aribo 

LF – Ryan Kent 

ST – Alfredo Morelos

That’s a strong starting XI and given the opposition’s recent form, Gerrard will be hoping his players dish out a Boxing Day battering in preparation for the weekend trip to Parkhead.