Rangers will look to keep pace with Celtic at the top of the Scottish Premiership when they travel to St. Johnstone on Wednesday.
Giovanni Van Bronckhorst’s side failed to capitalize on Celtic’s slip-up last time around as they squandered a two-goal lead at home against Motherwell. The result left them three points behind the league leaders after 28 games.
Rangers have been imperious in Europe, dispatching of Borussia Dortmund with ease to advance to the last 16, but their domestic form is a cause for concern, having drawn their last two.
But they boast a formidable record against St. Johnstone on the road, remaining unbeaten in their last 14 meetings in all competitions.
Rangers Team News
Giovanni van Bronckhorst will be without Aaron Ramsey, Steven Davis, Ryan Jack, Amad Diallo, Filip Helander, Ianis Hagi and Nnamdi Ofoborh.
Glen Kamara’s return to the starting lineup against Dortmund forced quite a bit of a reshuffle, with John Lundstram moving into defence and Calvin Bassey slotting in at left-back. It remains to be seen whether van Bronckhorst sticks with the same system against St. Johnstone.
Fashion Sakala is also pushing for a start.
Predicted Rangers lineup vs St. Johnstone (4-2-3-1)
Goalkeeper
Allan McGregor produced a dismal display against Motherwell last time out, but the 40-year-old is expected to keep his place in goal ahead of Jon McLaughlin.
Defenders
James Tavernier is one of the first names on the teamsheet for Rangers and he will start at right-back. Lundstram is expected to continue in central defence, partnering Connor Goldson. The onus will be on Goldson and Lundstram to shore up a backline that’s failed to keep a clean sheet in the last five games.
With Lundstram slotting in at centre-back, Calvin Bassey will be shifted to the left, keeping Borna Barisic out of the side.
Midfielders
Predicted Rangers Lineup vs St. Johnstone
Glen Kamara returned to the Rangers lineup against Motherwell and had a decent outing. He will line up alongside Scott Arfield in central midfield.
Joe Aribo will occupy the No. 10 role. The Nigerian will have an important role to play in breaking down St. Johnstone’s low block.
Ryan Kent is one of the most dynamic wingers in the Scottish league. He has already provided 14 assists in all competitions this season and will trouble the St. Johnstone defence with his pace and trickery.
Fashion Sakala will likely get the nod on the right after netting in the 2-2 draw against Motherwell.
Attackers
Alfredo Morelos will lead the line for Rangers. The Colombian is Rangers’ top scorer this season with 11 goals in the league, but has failed to find the net in his last three games.