Rangers: Derek Clark makes team news prediction v Kilmarnock, he’s ‘anxious’ about John Souttar
Derek Clark has admitted he’s “anxious” about John Souttar starting for Rangers in the game against Kilmarnock on Wednesday (28 February).
Speaking on the Rangers Review YouTube page on Wednesday, the journalist predicted the 27-year-old to drop out of the side for fellow centre-back Leon Balogun due to concerns about the artificial pitch at Rugby Park.
He also expects Ross McCausland to replace Tom Lawrence in the starting lineup, while he suggested Fabio Silva may lead the line ahead of Cyriel Dessers for the Light Blues as they look to strengthen their SPL title hopes.
“I do expect Dessers if he isn’t starting to make an impact from the bench,” said Clark. “I think this game might suit Leon Balogun. John Souttar, ditto with Kemar Roofe reasons, I’m a bit anxious about him playing on that surface.
“I know he has played on it before, but I don’t think Rangers necessarily weaken in any shape or form with Leon coming back in this evening.”
John Souttar may not be worth risking for Rangers
There perhaps isn’t any need for Rangers to risk Souttar against Kilmarnock as the artificial pitches can be unpredictable and he does have a history of ankle problems.
The centre-back has been in fine form in recent weeks after nailing down a regular spot in the starting lineup under Philippe Clement at Ibrox.
But the Gers boss knows Balogun is more than an adequate replacement for the Scotland international, so the veteran could get the nod at Rugby Park.
It wouldn’t be a surprise to see Silva come back into the starting lineup, either, as the Belgian manager has been rotating between the forward duo in recent weeks.
It could be a difficult game against Killie, but the Light Blues will be more than confident that they can pick up another huge three points in their bid to claim the SPL title this season.
In other Rangers news, Jack Butland has shared which “huge” Ibrox moment wowed him.
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