Ryan Jack axed, Jose Cifuentes makes debut – Rangers Predicted XI v Livingston
Michael Beale could look to hand out another debut for Rangers when they host Livingston in their first home game of the SPFL season against Livingston.
The Gers opened the campaign with a shock 1-0 defeat to Kilmarnock at Rugby Park last week, before bouncing back with a 2-1 win over Servette in the Champions League qualifying round in midweek.
Now Beale turns his attention back to the domestic league, and could look to make changes from the opening game to ensure a positive result.
In goal Jack Butland is yet to keep a clean sheet in Rangers colours but continues to impress and will keep the shirt and his place between the sticks ahead of Robby McCrorie.
The defence continues to deal with injury problems, meaning Beale is likely to stick with the back four of James Tavernier, Connor Goldson, John Souttar and Borna Barisic, with Leon Balogun, Leon King and Dujon Sterling ready to step in if needs be.
Ryan Jack performed well in midweek with his energy and positioning defensively, but he’s likely to drop out of the lineup in order for brand new signing Jose Cifuentes to make his full debut.
The Ecuador international came on as a substitute in midweek and looked strong, while also being assured in possession and full of energy and this is the perfect setting to get him accustomed to the league while at Ibrox against one of the division’s weaker sides.
Alongside him Todd Cantwell will surely get his first league start of the season after proving his importance in midweek, after being surprisingly benched for the league opener.
Ahead of them Sam Lammers has established himself as a solid addition in the number ten role and should have scored against Servette, so will be hoping to open his account in this game.
Up front Abdallah Sima was left out in midweek as Cyriel Dessers got his first Ibrox goal so he should start again, while Danilo’s pace and movement caused problems and will likely earn him another start too.
In other Rangers news, battle on with Celtic and PL clubs to sign Scottish starlet.