Rangers are set to welcome back THREE players for Sunday’s Viaplay Cup semi-final encounter with Hearts, but manager Philippe Clement isn’t expected to make many alterations to his starting line-up.
The Belgian boss will aim to take one step closer to securing his first piece of silverware against a Jambos side that got the better off in the Scottish Premiership last weekend. James Tavernier and Danilo netted two goals in three minutes to cancel out Lawrence Shankland’s early opener at Ibrox.
The Light Blues then recorded a 5-0 thrashing of Dundee at Dens Park on Wednesday night and head to Hampden Park this weekend as strong favourites to get their hands of the League Cup trophy for the first time in 12 years.
Clement is dealing with a lenghty injury list and confirmed in his pre-match media conference on Friday that defender John Souttar and Kemar Roofe (muscle), midfielder Nicolas Raskin (ankle) and winger Rabbi Matondo (knee) are all unavailable for the clash.
However, a return to action could be on the cards for fit-again trio Ben Davies, Tom Lawrence and Borna Barisic who are back in contention.
Here’s how we think the Gers will shape up against Hearts at the National Stadium on Sunday:
9. Sam Lammers - CAM
The Dutchman’s will be feeling great within himself after ending his goal drought at Dens Park and dropping him to the bench would undoubtedly shatter that new-found confidence. Likely to start in the number ten role. Photo: Rob Casey - SNS Group
10. Todd Cantwell - RCF
The former Norwich City man is an integral part of this team and needs to start on such a huge occasion. A big-game player who brings real creativity and a goal threat. | Getty Images
11. Abdallah Sima - LCF
The Senegalese forward remains the club’s most dangerous attacker coming in off the left flank. Has been a shrewd loan capture. | AFP via Getty Images
12. Danilo - CF
Adds an extra dimension to this team up front and offers more than Dessers. Favoured to be given the lone striker role but might not be able to play the full 90 minutes. | Getty Images