After two correct predictions in a week, the pressure is on to make it three in a row as Rangers host Aberdeen at Ibrox on Saturday.
It’s another big game for the Gers, who are looking to stick to winning ways for the foreseeable future.
Last time out, Steven Gerrard’s side squeezed past Livingston 1-0 in the League Cup quarter-final.
The result was the main thing, but the performance was lacklustre and a better display will be required this time around against a side who beat the Gers three times in Glasgow last season.
We’re predicting three changes to the side.
Return of Katic?
At the back, Nikola Katic could return alongside Connor Goldson, in place of Filip Helander. The big Swede did extremely well against Feyenoord last week but struggled badly against the physical presence of Lyndon Dykes at Livi.
Given that the similarly physical Sam Cosgrove is set to lead the line for the Dons, although it may look harsh to drop a player following a clean sheet, it makes sense to bring back the bulkier and more aggressive Nikola Katic.
In midfield, Joe Aribo will miss out after picking up a nasty cut in midweek. The midfielder required 20 stitches in a head wound inflicted by Ricki Lamie’s elbow and could be sidelined until after the international break.
Steven Davis should slot back into the playing XI in Aribo’s absence.
Finally, we’re backing a hunch that Greg Stewart could be let loose against his old side. Scott Arfield is struggling for form right now and Gers coach Michael Beale recently predicted Stewart would soon get a big opportunity to prove his worth [RangersTV].
He could get the nod in the roaming role behind Morelos on either the right or left side, with Sheyi Ojo pipping Brandon Barker to the one out-and-out winger berth.
As was the case at McDiarmid Park last weekend, Arfield could then be used as an impact sub for the final half an hour, if required.
Rangers vs Aberdeen (H) 28/09/2019 – Predicted XI
GK – Allan McGregor
RB – James Tavernier
CB – Nikola Katic
CB – Connor Goldson
LB – Borna Barisic
CDM – Glen Kamara
CM – Ryan Jack
CM – Steven Davis
RF – Sheyi Ojo
LF – Greg Stewart
ST – Alfredo Morelos
