Michael Beale to make several changes as youth get a chance – Rangers predicted XI v St Johnstone
Rangers could be set to make several changes to their starting lineup for their Scottish Cup clash with St Johnstone on Saturday evening.
The Bears claimed a 3-2 win over Kilmarnock in midweek to keep the gap behind Celtic at nine points in the title race, and now turn their attentions towards defending their Scottish Cup title.
But with such a hectic schedule in recent weeks, manager Michael Beale could look to use this as an opportunity to rest key players and give youngsters and fringe players an opportunity from the start.
Jon McLaughlin and Allan McGregor have been sharing the goalkeeper spot in recent weeks and the veteran should get the nod here after McLaughlin’s start in midweek between the sticks.
James Tavernier has shone at right-back and is getting back to his best under Beale, but this could be an ideal opportunity to give him a well-earned rest and give young Adam Devine another chance from the start in his more natural position on the right.
Connor Goldson is one of the most important players in the team and is likely to keep his place at centre-back, but could see his partner change with young Leon King stepping in for Ben Davies. Borna Barisic will almost certainly continue on the left.
Ryan Jack got his goal in the ViaPlay Cup semi-final with Aberdeen but was rested in midweek so should return to the side, and could find James Sands alongside him in his more natural midfield position.
Ryan Kent has been a regular in the attack and could get a rest at the weekend from the start which should see the ever-impressive Alex Lowry in the number ten role, surrounded by pace.
Scott Wright can slot in on the right wing to try and claim a place in the side, while Malik Tillman can come back into the side on the left hand side in place of Fashion Sakala Jr.
Kemar Roofe is out after nearly breaking his arm following his winning goal against Aberdeen and Antonio Colak is still out after his latest injury problem, so Alfredo Morelos should keep his place up front following his goal against Kilmarnock.
Rangers predicted XI: McGregor; Devine, Goldson, King, Barisic; Jack, Sands; Wright, Lowry, Tillman; Morelos
In other Rangers news, one Aston Villa youngster is a target at Ibrox with the Premier League club ready to let him leave.