Scott Wright and Ryan Jack axed after Philippe Clement press conference reveal – Rangers predicted XI v Hearts
Philippe Clement is likely to make some changes to his Rangers starting lineup ahead of their League Cup semi-final clash with Hearts at Hampden Park.
The boss has been dealing with a horrible injury list since arriving but is yet to taste defeat as Gers manager, with a 5-0 win at Dundee last time out.
And Clement revealed that he expects all but four players to be available for the clash with Hearts on Sunday afternoon in a huge boost to the side, which means some changes to personnel should be expected.
Jack Butland will retain his place between the sticks as the undisputed number one goalkeeper, and the defence in front of him could see a change after the most recent injury news.
James Tavernier is finding some form again at right-back and his partnership with Connor Goldson provides great balance to the team, while Ridvan Yilmaz deserves to keep his place in the side ahead of a fit-again Borna Barisic.
But despite Leon Balogun’s fine performance in the win over Dundee, Ben Davies is fit again and should find himself back in the team for such an important clash.
John Lundstram has become an integral part of the midfield with his energy, hard-tackling style and passing ability and while Ryan Jack found himself on the scoresheet in midweek this seems like the perfect opportunity for Jose Cifuentes to come into the side and add a bit more physicality and mobility after his recovery from an injury suffered on international duty.
Sam Lammers finally ended his goal drought and turned in an excellent performance as the number ten in midweek so should continue in the side, while Abdallah Sima remains the most dangerous player in the side coming in off the left wing.
But Scott Wright is expected to drop out of the side and find himself on the bench once again, with main man Todd Cantwell set to be recalled after being rested at Dundee.
Cyriel Dessers also got himself on the scoresheet in that 5-0 win in controversial fashion, but Danilo has added an extra dimension to the side as the number nine and should start the game even if he is unable to complete the full 90 minutes.
In other Rangers news, club must make early swoop for £6m man in January to avoid repeat of 2023 summer flop.