Ibrox View: Rare start for 24y/o, 2 changes – Rangers predicted XI vs St. Johnstone
Rangers enjoyed a rare weekend off and host St. Johnstone on Wednesday as they bid to extend the unbeaten run.
There was still something to celebrate on Saturday, as Celtic’s shock home defeat to St. Mirren means the Gers maintain a 23-point lead at the top of the Scottish Premiership.
Steven Gerrard heads into the mid-week game with a big decision to make due to Alfredo Morelos’ suspension.
The Colombia international has picked up a charge from the Scottish FA for a stamp on Hibernian’s Ryan Porteous, which was missed by officials during the game.
He faces a three-match suspension, with the hearing on Tuesday, and that means Jermain Defo or Cedric Itten, 24, will likely lead the line.
We think the latter will enjoy just his third league start of the season, as he has impressed from the bench this season.
His important goal at Motherwell recently shows what he is capable of, and if we play to his strengths he should perform well at Ibrox.
Along with Itten, we also think Kemar Roofe will make his first start since returning from injury.
Here is how we expect the Gers to line-up.
Stevie G has a tricky decision to make in regard to his midfield three.
Steven Davis has been a solid performer but could get a rest, while Joe Aribo and Glenn Kamara both impressed supporters with their fine showings.
Ryan Jack is unlikely to drop out after a successful return.
Roofe and Kent should provide pace to pin back the Saints on the wings, allowing James Tavernier and Borna Barisic to venture forward in their typical fashion.
If that happens they will have space and time to deliver crosses into Itten, and the Swiss should take advantage.
The match provides a good opportunity for Gerrard to experiment with his attack, and it will be intriguing to see how Itten links up with the wingers.
We play Hamilton on Sunday so there is a case for players to be rested.
However, the defence is likely to remain the same after yet another clean sheet at Easter Road, and we are confident we will keep St. Johnstone at bay on our way to another three points.
In other Rangers news, Man City are set to beat us to the signing of a highly coveted youngster.