Rangers predicted XI vs St Johnstone: One change in formation reshuffle as Dundee fall guy keeps place
Here’s how the Light Blues could line up at Ibrox on Saturday
Rangers seek to get back to winning ways in the Scottish Premiership at home to St Johnstone on Saturday.
The Light Blues’ win-streak of seven games come to an end last weekend at Dens Park, where some careless mistakes cost them. The 2-2 stalemate means they now sit four points behind leaders Celtic in the league after they smashed Hearts 7-1.
The glory run for manager Derek McInnes was always going to come to an end, however the manner of it left a sour taste. A late error from midfielder Dan Neil gifted the hosts the equaliser. Before that, Rangers struggled in the first half with no Kevin Kelsy to help strike partner Ryan Naderi. At times the Czechia international was isolated on Tayside.
Kelsy represented the only change McInnes made to his starting XI in four matches. Winger Badredine Bouanani came in for the Venezuelan and took his chance well with a first half wonder strike. However, back at Ibrox against a physical St Johnstone side, McInnes may be tempted to revert back to his trusted 4-4-2 formation. Using said system, here’s how we think Rangers will set up against the Saints on Saturday:
GK - Ivor Pandur
Rangers have conceded three goals in their last two but they were more down to defensive errors. Goalkeeper keeps place for the foreseeable.
RB - Dujon Sterling
A rare wobble on Saturday in an otherwise assured campaign so far. As one of the more experienced players, he’ll know how important it is to put a result like Saturday’s behind them.
CB - Emmanuel Fernandez
Defender is set for a tough test against St Johnstone’s in-form striker Josh Fowler. Can’t afford any lapses in concentration.
CB - Olwethu Makhanya
The standout of the summer signings so far but hasn’t quite come back the same from the international break. Needs to revisit his form over the Celtic double header.
LB - James Penrice
A man who loves playing at Ibrox. He should be well up for this one if recent home performances are anything to go by. His crossing ability gives Rangers a constant threat from the left hand side.
CM - Dan Neil
The captain will be keen to make amends after his Dundee howler. A strong character who you’d think wouldn’t let something like that affect him going forward.
CM - Nico Raskin
Another who bagged a wonder goal at the weekend - slightly tarnished by his hospital pass to Neil in the lead up to the equaliser. However, he remains one of the first names on the team sheet.
RM - Kim Min-su
The Korean had a quiet first half on Saturday then burst into life. He’s due a goal given the amount of long shots he’s had saved. No room for Bouanani on the right with an extra striker.
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
Goals dried up at Dens Park but it felt as if there was no one near him any time Rangers launched the ball long. He’ll be hoping they create more for him in Govan on Saturday.
ST - Kevin Kelsy
Naderi needs his partner in crime, especially at Ibrox if Rangers are to overpower the opposition. Dropping the striker didn’t work, so surely he slots back in?
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