Rangers predicted XI vs Dundee as winger who needs a rest marked as solitary change from Kilmarnock victory
Here’s how we think Derek McInnes will set up his side on Sunday
Rangers take on Dundee at Dens Park on Saturday night in the Scottish Premiership as they seek to extend their unbeaten run and put pressure on rivals Celtic.
Saturday’s 3-1 victory at home to Kilmarnock marked the Light Blues’ seventh victory in a row. They currently sit second place in the standing - but only two points behind leaders Celtic. This means a result in the City of Discovery would see them reclaim top spot before the Hoops host Hearts the following day. However, to do that, they’ll have to overcome Steven Pressley’s in-form Dark Blues, who’ve won their last two on the bounce to make their way up to fourth.
Rangers boss Derek McInnes now has a fairly settled starting XI. The same side who defeated Celtic 3-0 in the League Cup last month was deployed again at Parkhead a week later, then again, versus Killie last weekend. Bearing in mind his ‘if ain’t broke, don’t fix it’ approach, here’s how we think they’ll set up at Dens Park, using the 4-4-2 formation:
GK - Ivor Pandur
Killie’s consolation goal marked the first time the Croatian conceded in five games. A great return for one of the standout summer additions.
RB - Dujon Sterling
A doubt for the weekend after coming off at half time due to tonsillitis. However, if fit he should start, having made the right back position his own recently.
CB - Emmanuel Fernandez
The defender has a mistake in him but remains their first choice right-sided centre back. Also adds an aerial threat in both boxes.
CB - Olwethu Makhanya
Another standout summer signing. The South African has slotted seamlessly into the defence and has strolled it so far.
LB - James Penrice
Fellow left back Tuur Rommens is now fit following a groin strain - but it might be a while until he can reclaim his place, given the form of the AEK Athens loanee.
CM - Dan Neil
He has stepped up to role of captain well in Lawrence Shankland’s absence. A huge player for the season ahead.
CM - Nico Raskin
Hasn’t been at his best of late but remains one of the first names on the team sheet. Forming a strong midfield partnership with Neil.
RM - Findlay Curtis
The solitary predicted change. Kim Min-su covered acres of Ibrox in the victory over Kilmarnock. He also covered a lot of distance travelling back and forth from South Korea during the international break. Needs a rest and Curtis is the ideal replacement.
LM - Djeidi Gassama
End product lacking of late but still a hugely important player under McInnes. His ability to win fouls and help the team get up the pitch gets overlooked.
ST - Ryan Naderi
With six goal contributions in his last five at club level, Rangers’ number 20 is on fire. He’ll be looking to build on his brace last weekend.
ST - Kevin Kelsy
His partner in crime also got on the scoresheet against Killie. He wasn’t at his best but should’ve done enough to keep his place.
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