Jose Cifuentes to get rare start after Nicolas Raskin ruled out – Predicted Rangers XI v Aberdeen
Philippe Clement could be set to make a host of changes to his Rangers starting lineup when they take on Aberdeen on Sunday afternoon.
The Gers are unbeaten since the Belgian replaced Michael Beale as manager, and they’re hoping to welcome back several players from injury after a two-week international break.
But after the boss revealed that Nicolas Raskin remains out injured and Ryan Jack is a doubt for the game, among other updates, he has some big decisions to make with his team selection.
Jack Butland remains the number one goalkeeper at the club and will start between the sticks, while James Tavernier’s recent form means he should keep his place at right back too.
Connor Goldson remains the first central defender on the team sheet this season, but his partner has changed regularly this season. When fit Ben Davies has been the man to get the nod and despite Leon Balogun’s impressive performances before the break, the former Liverpool man should come back into the side.
Ridvan Yilmaz and Borna Barisic are still battling for the left-back position, but Barisic is still considered to be first-choice by most and he should be fit enough to return to the team.
In midfield the boss is short on options with Raskin and Jack both likely to be unavailable, which should give Ecuador international Jose Cifuentes the chance for a rare start.
Since joining in the summer Cifuentes has failed to make an impact at Ibrox, but this is an opportunity for him to lay a marker down and show he has a long-term future at the club under the manager.
Further forward Todd Cantwell should be recalled in his new role on the right ahead of Ross McCausland, despite the latter agreeing to a new long-term Rangers contract, while Abdallah Sima’s spot on the left wing seems safe right now.
Tom Lawrence was given a surprising start last time out in the 2-0 win over Livingston but Sam Lammers is likely to be recalled after finding more confidence since the manager’s arrival in his favoured number ten role.
Up front Cyriel Dessers got a goal when he started against Livingston, but Danilo has been very impressive and been scoring goals regularly too so the Brazilian is expected to get the start.
In other Rangers news, first-team star to pen new contract at Ibrox in next 48 hours.