As the Steven Gerrard train powers on, here’s how Rangers could look against Motherwell this afternoon at Fir Park.
The Ibrox side come into the match off the back of yet another success against Ufa. Rangers will take a first-leg lead to Russia after overcoming their plucky opponents 1-0 on Thursday night. However, attentions must now swiftly turn to another huge clash against Motherwell.
Supporters will remember the feisty nature of these clashes last season. A 2-0 defeat in the Betfred Cup semi-final was over-shadowed with focus on Steve Robinson’s side and their physicality. The omens are positive ahead of this one, however, as Rangers haven’t lost a regular league game at Fir Park in 16 years.
Changes
However, what changes could Gerrard make to the side that beat Ufa?
In truth, not a lot is the answer.
An injury to Lassana Coulibaly means it’s more than likely Ryan Jack and Ovie Ejaria occupy the two holding roles in a 4-2-3-1 system. The likes of Ryan Kent, Scott Arfield, and Daniel Candeias are also likely to occupy the attacking midfield roles.
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Kent put in a real shift against Ufa, and will be the source of inspiration down the left once more. Responsibility has been thrown onto the youngster’s shoulders after the injury to Jamie Murphy.
It ould be surprising if Borna Barisic, however, wasn’t thrown back in at left-back. His continuing suspension in Europe means a constant rotation system at left-back.
Left-back rotation
Fans remain unconvinced by Jon Flanagan after his Ufa performance on Thursday night. Therefore, Barisic should be given the nod this afternoon.
Outside of that, the back-line is certain to be its usual self. James Tavernier will operate down the right, whilst Connor Goldson and Nikola Katic will continue their impressive partnership in front of Allan McGregor in goal.
With some big matches coming up, it also wouldn’t be surprising to see Kyle Lafferty get his first start this afternoon. Alfredo Morelos has been in terrific form, particularly domestically. However, with a huge second-leg in Russia on Thursday followed by a trip to Parkhead, Lafferty could get the nod instead of the Colombian.
Below is the predicted XI in full for today’s clash:
ALLAN MCGREGOR (GK)
JAMES TAVERNIER (RB)
CONNOR GOLDSON (CB)
NIKOLA KATIC (CB)
BORNA BARISIC (LB)
RYAN JACK (CDM)
OVIE EJARIA (CDM)
DANIEL CANDEIAS (RM)
SCOTT ARFIELD (CAM)
RYAN KENT (LM)
KYLE LAFFERTY (ST)