Ferguson axes Leon Balogun in three changes – Rangers predicted XI v Aberdeen
Barry Ferguson could make three changes to his Rangers side to face Aberdeen on Sunday, with Leon Balogun potentially set to drop to the bench.
The Gers welcomed their Old Firm rivals to Celtic to Ibrox last time out and secured a point despite taking the lead through Cyriel Dessers.
Now the Govan club will be keen to secure a first win as six as they once again play host, as Jimmy Thelin’s side travel to Glasgow on 11 May.
Ferguson will be keen to finish his interim spell on a positive run of form, which could be set to kickstart against the Dons, but could look to do so without Balogun.
Balogun axed for Rangers v Aberdeen
As has been the case in recent weeks, it feels likely that Liam Kelly will start once again for the Light Blues after making two saves against the Hoops [FotMob].
Ahead of the Scot, the backline could be set to have a familiar look with James Tavernier, John Souttar and Jefte all likely to remain in the side at Ibrox.
This could see Balogun drop out of the side after starting last time out in G51, with Robin Propper potentially set to come back in to hand the Nigerian a rest after a full 90 on his return to the side.
Another change could be utilised by Ferguson with Bailey Rice potentially set to come back into the side, in place of Connor Barron, alongside Nico Raskin.
This duo could sit just behind Mohamed Diomande, who could be in line for yet another start after his assist against Celtic in the Old Firm.
| Stat | Mohamed Diomande v Celtic |
| Pass accuracy (%) | 97 |
| Successful dribbles | 2 |
| Defensive actions | 7 |
| Duels won | 9 |
Vaclav Cerny and Cyriel Dessers could be set to also keep their places in the side with the latter netting the opener and sparking wild scenes with yet another strike against the Gers’ biggest rivals.
One alteration could be utilised in the forward line with Nedim Bajrami also set to face the axe, with Hamza Igamane potentially set to come in after making a 24-minute appearance last time out at Ibrox.
Rangers hopeful of win v Aberdeen
There is no doubt that the Light Blues are in desperate need of a positive result at Ibrox after a run of frustrating results.
As positive as a point against Celtic may be, this made it four draws from five games in all competitions, which isn’t good enough.
Looking ahead to the rest of the season, there will be high expectations of results, especially with the potential of the 49ers coming in over the summer.
A positive run of form to end the campaign could spark a positive start to the next, which can only be seen as a plus point for the Ibrox club.