Jack Butland, James Tavernier and Connor Goldson axed – Rangers predicted XI v Livingston
Michael Beale is set to make several changes to his Rangers starting lineup for the Viaplay Cup quarter-final clash with Livingston on Wednesday.
The Gers made it three wins in a row in all competitions with a 1-0 win over Motherwell on Sunday, following on from victories against St Johnstone and Real Betis to ease the pressure on the manager.
But with a hectic schedule to come ahead of the October international break, Beale is likely to use this as a chance to make changes to his team and give fringe players important minutes while still pushing for a big win.
Jack Butland has been an ever-present so far this season but the former Manchester United man could probably do with a rest, with Robby McCrorie chomping at the bit for an opportunity this could be the perfect time to give him one.
James Tavernier and Connor Goldson remain first-choice on the right-hand side of the defence but summer signings Dujon Sterling and Leon Balogun are fit and can step in to provide them a rest also, while John Souttar and Ridvan Yilmaz can come in on the left to replace Ben Davies and Borna Barisic too.
Midfield is unlikely to change too much due to a lack of options, with Kieran Dowell, Nicolas Raskin and Todd Cantwell all injured so Ryan Jack should partner Jose Cifuentes to allow John Lundstram an opportunity to rest too.
Further forward Rabbi Matondo has been ruled out for six weeks with a knee problem he picked up against Motherwell and will miss the game, which could see Scott Wright keep his place on the wing.
Tom Lawrence is looking to establish himself in Michael Beale’s plans for the season and with Abdallah Sima the last pacey option available, he could be saved on the bench to ensure his availability for the weekend league game.
That would allow for Sam Lammers to keep his place in the side from the start playing just off the striker, with Kemar Roofe coming into the number nine role ahead of the weekend’s goalscorer Cyriel Dessers who faces the axe.
In other Rangers news, another forward ruled out with knee injury to add to Ibrox injury woes.