After registering a thumping 4-0 win over Ayr United in the Betfred Cup, Rangers are flying high with confidence. Their form in the Scottish Premiership is also pretty good, with their previous league outing ending in a 5-1 win over St. Johnstone.
The Gers will have to shift their attention back to the league as they are due to make a trip to the Almondvale Stadium on Sunday to face Livingston. Steven Gerrard’s side are currently fifth in the league table but can move up to second with a win over their upcoming opponents.
Manager Steven Gerrard revealed that the team is focussed on the upcoming game, “We are in for a very tough game again and we know it is a huge three points. That is all I am focused on at the moment. We are delighted to qualify in a cup through the week and we look forward to that semi-final, but all our focus now is now on Livingston.”
Rangers Team News
Gareth McAuley and Ryan Jack are doubtful for the fixture while Jamie Murphy has been ruled out for the rest of the season owing to his ligament tear. Borna Barisic could, however, make it back in time for the clash.
Predicted Rangers Lineup
Defence
Allan McGregor has been Rangers’ first-choice custodian so far this season in the league games and he should remain in goal. James Tavernier is expected to operate from the right-back slot, with Jon Flanagan could start on the other side of Barisic isn’t fit enough.
Tavernier has been exceptional in his forward runs and he has put in consistent displays at the back as well. Connor Goldson and Nikola Katic are likely to start as the two central defenders. The duo have combined the front-footed defending and the covering pretty well so far this season
Midfield
Ross McCrorie should be the one primarily tasked with the responsibility of shielding his side’s back line as he did well in the Cup tie. His industry should help Rangers against Gary Holt’s troops.
Lassana Coulibaly and Scott Arfield are expected to get the nod to start alongside McCrorie in the three-man midfield. While Coulibaly adds a lot of steel to the midfield, Arfield’s experience has been a huge asset for Gerrard’s side.
Attack
Alfredo Morelos should be leading the line for the Gers. The striker is in fine form and he will be keen to up his goal tally. Daniel Candeias is expected to keep his place on the right wing after his impressive display against St. Johnstone last weekend. Ryan Kent is likely to start on the left wing and he’ll be keen on impressing with a Europa League tie on the horizon as well.