Philippe Clement to axe exit-linked Ridvan Yilmaz – Rangers predicted XI v Dumbarton
Philippe Clement could be set to axe Ridvan Yilmaz from the starting lineup for the Rangers game against Dumbarton on Saturday (20 January).
The Turkey international started the Gers’ last competitive match against Kilmarnock on 2 January as he helped his side pick up a 3-1 victory in the SPFL.
But as the Light Blues boss is likely to ring the changes against the League Two club in the fourth round of the Scottish Cup, the 22-year-old left-back, who has been heavily linked with a move away from Ibrox, could be set to drop down to the bench.
After Rangers have played a couple of friendlies to keep the squad fit during the winter break, Clement is predicted to hand some fringe players an opportunity by making nine changes for the trip to West Dunbartonshire.
Robby McCrorie could be in line to receive his first minutes of the campaign if the Belgian manager decides to hand Jack Butland a rest.
With James Tavernier playing just about every minute of every game this season, the Gers captain may also be set for a breather, potentially providing Adam Devine the opportunity to impress as doubts remain over Dujon Sterling’s fitness.
After an injury-ravaged first half of the season, Leon King is predicted to come in to join John Souttar in the heart of the defence against the League Two outfit.
Borna Barisic has had to get used to an unfamiliar place on the bench in recent weeks, but the Croatian international is expected to replace Yilmaz at left-back.
Jose Cifuentes is likely to come into the side in midfield, where he could partner Ryan Jack as he looks to make his first start in more than two months, having returned to the side for the midweek friendly with FC Copenhagen.
It’s a similar story for Tom Lawrence as he may be welcomed back into the side in an attacking midfield role after coming off the bench in the 2-2 draw against the Danish club.
With Ross McCausland likely to be handed a rest, Scott Wright could be the man charged with providing the width down the right-hand side for the Light Blues.
On the opposition flank, Rabbi Matondo may earn a rare start under Clement, with Abdallah Sima currently away with Senegal at the Africa Cup of Nations.
Cyriel Dessers could be given an excellent opportunity to boost his confidence against Dumbarton as he is predicted to lead the line for his side.
In other Rangers news, a player the Gers want to sign has been offered a “lucrative” contract.
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