Fashion Sakala out, Nicolas Raskin to make full debut – Rangers predicted XI v Partick Thistle
Rangers take on Partick Thistle in the fifth round of the Scottish Cup on Sunday and Michael Beale could look to heavily rotate his squad against the Scottish Championship side.
The in-form Fashion Sakala, who has eight goals and assists in his last eleven matches could well be given a rest by the Light Blues’ boss. He has started all but two of Beale’s games in charge and he could be replaced by Ianis Hagi.
The Romanian is being eased back into action and was an unused substitute in the Gers’ 2-1 win over Ross County. The 24-year-old’s absence from the win at Ibrox could well indicate that Beale is potentially set to give him a starting berth against Partick.
One other change in attack could see Antonio Colak come in to replace Alfredo Morelos, who has featured heavily in recent weeks. The Croatian only played for ten minutes at the weekend and could be in line for a start.
We anticipate the midfield to be completely changed, with Nicolas Raskin coming in to make his full debut alongside Glen Kamara. Jon Lundstram hobbled off against Ross County and will almost certainly not be risked in the Scottish Cup. Ryan Jack could also be replaced due to Beale’s eagerness to rotate in recent weeks.
We anticipate the same back four to feature against the Scottish Championship side with Allan McGregor replacing Jon McLaughlin in goal after the former Sunderland man’s error against Malky Mackay’s men.
In other Rangers news, a Celtic-mad manager has grudgingly admitted that the Gers are alongside the Old Firm rivals as a top-eight club in Britain.