Kemar Roofe, Ridvan Yilmaz and Ryan Jack axed – Predicted Rangers XI v Aberdeen
Michael Beale could be set to axe two senior aces from his Rangers starting lineup for the SPFL clash with Aberdeen at Ibrox on Saturday.
The Gers claimed a semi-final place in the Viaplay Cup with a 4-0 win over Livingston in midweek, and now look to keep that momentum with a big win over Aberdeen in the league as they try to close the gap on Celtic once more.
But Beale could look to make some changes to his team amid injury worries and a selection headache for the game, which could see some senior pros dropped down to the bench.
One player who doesn’t have to worry about that this weekend is goalkeeper Jack Butland, who has been excellent since arriving at the club in the summer and he will start once again.
In defence Connor Goldson and Ben Davies remain unbeaten in 20 appearances together at the back and the former Liverpool man has ousted John Souttar as first-choice centre-back now.
Right-back and captain James Tavernier is likely to continue once again too as his form picks up to it’s usual high level, but despite his goal in midweek Turkish left-back Ridvan Yilmaz is likely to drop out of the team to allow Borna Barisic to come back into the side.
Nicolas Raskin, Todd Cantwell and Kieran Dowell continue to be unavailable due to injuries which gives Beale fewer options in the centre of midfield. Ryan Jack got on the scoresheet against Livingston, but Jose Cifuentes and John Lundstram have been in fine form and should continue as a duo.
Further forward Sam Lammers has impressed in recent games playing just off the main number nine and is likely to continue there, linking the play from the midfield with his dribbling and creativity.
Rabbi Matondo’s injury has ruled him out for the next six weeks which means there is a lack of pace available to Beale, and makes Abdallah Sima even more important on the left hand side.
It also opens up the chance for Tom Lawrence to slot in on the right and drift in-field, although Scott Wright is also an option to keep the width if Beale opts for that instead.
Up front Danilo and Kemar Roofe are suffering with injuries, which should see Cyriel Dessers come back into the side after his match-winner against Motherwell last weekend.
In other Rangers news, Kenny Miller stunned by ‘Unbelievable’ moment in win v Livingston.