Rangers predicted XI v Celtic: Borna Barisic to be axed by Philippe Clement
Rangers head coach Philippe Clement could hand Ridvan Yilmaz a return to the starting line-up for their Old Firm derby showdown against Celtic.
The left-back has become a key player for the Gers and his potential return would be a real boost to the Gers’ chances of victory in what could be a title-deciding contest.
The 22-year-old picked up an injury on international duty with Turkey and missed the game against Hibernian as a result, but could recover in time to feature at Ibrox on 7 April.
Borna Barisic is predicted to be axed from the starting line-up in the one and only change so that Yilmaz can start – if he’s fit.
Abdallah Sima to play the role of impact substitute
Clement would surely love to be able to call on the talents of free-scoring Brighton loanee Abdallah Sima, who has netted 15 times across all competitions for Rangers this season – only captain James Tavernier and centre-forward Cyriel Dessers have more.
However, the 22-year-old winger has just recovered from a lengthy injury layoff, missing nine games between January and March with a hamstring issue.
He made his return in the last game against Hibernian, but only featured for 10 minutes off the bench and is unlikely to be deemed fit enough to start in a game of such intensity. Wolves loanee Fabio Silva has been trusted on the left win in recent weeks and is likely to reprise his role.
Dujon Sterling also set for bench role
Dujon Sterling also returned from injury against Hibs, grabbing an assist for fellow substitute Rabbi Matondo’s late goal to wrap up a 3-1 victory.
It was the 24-year-old’s first appearance since being forced off in the 2-0 Scottish FA Cup victory over the same opposition on March 10 and, although he played over half an hour, it remains more likely that Clement will choose to name him among the substitutes.
The right-wing berth has witnessed plenty of change in recent months, but Scott Wright could get the nod, having started against both Hibs and Benfica in Rangers’ last two outings across all competitions.
The rest of the line-up is likely to remain the same, with defensive trio Tavernier, Connor Goldson and John Souttar joining whoever is selected at left-back ahead of regular goalkeeper Jack Butland.
Midfield anchor John Lundstram will surely start, partnering impressive January arrival Mohammed Diomande at the base of midfield, while Todd Cantwell should operate behind Dessers, who has scored 17 goals in all competitions this term and will hope to add to that tally at Ibrox.
In other Rangers news, a former academy star has revealed his dream to return to the club and become the “main man” at Ibrox.
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