Rangers are enjoying the best possible start to their new season under Steven Gerrard who is still unbeaten across all competitions. The new manager guided the Gers to the Europa League playoffs, beating NK Maribor on aggregate in the third round qualifying tie.
Gerrard will get the first taste of domestic Cup action as a manager when Rangers begin their League Cup journey this Sunday afternoon. They travel to Rugby Park to face Kilmarnock FC in the second round fixture.
Killie, under Steve Clarke, had an impressive run last season in the league and troubled the Gers time and again when the two sides met. This outing, therefore, won’t be a cakewalk for the Glasgow giants.
Rangers – Team News
Graham Dorrans and Jordan Rossiter, the central midfield duo, are still out with their respective knee and calf injuries. Lee Wallace, the veteran left-back, is still working on regaining his fitness has fallen down the pecking order with Jon Flanagan and Borna Barisic being better options right now.
Lassana Coulibaly missed the trip to Slovenia through a knock but is likely to be involved against Kilmarnock this Sunday.
Predicted Rangers Lineup (4-3-3)
Defence
Although Wes Foderingham and Jak Alnwick are good ‘keepes in their own right, 36-year-old Allan McGregor‘s heroics against Maribor saw the Gers avoiding their first defeat of the season.
The veteran Scotsman should continue as their ‘number 1’ against Killie. Connor Goldson and Nikola Katic are expected to start as the two centre-halves. The duo has been majestic so far this season and restored the defensive resilience after years of frailty.
Skipper James Tavernier might be rested and replaced by Jon Flanagan in a right-back role while new signing Borna Barisic must return to action and start on the left after making an impressive league debut against St. Mirren last Sunday.
Midfield
Gerrard has rotated his options well in midfield and should start impressive Angers loanee Lassana Coulibaly if he is declared fit. Ryan Jack was back in action against Maribor and must retain his place.
Scott Arfield, the former Burnley attacker, could be deployed in a free role where he has excelled so far for his new club.
Attack
Ryan Kent, capable of playing on both the wings, should be utilised on the right flank to make way for Jamie Murphy who is best suited on the left.
The gaffer has the option of Umar Sadiq up his sleeve but is likely to deploy Alfredo Morelos upfront.
