It’s time for Rangers to step up and drag themselves back into the title race.
The much hyped clash of the top two at Parkhead on Saturday finished all square, which is exactly the outcome Philippe Clement will have been hoping for. They head to Pittodrie next Wednesday in what will be a severe test of their own credentials, never mind Aberdeen’s, but first they must edge closer to the Dons and Celtic with a win over Kilmarnock.
That will be a tricky task in itself. They lost in Ayrshire to kick off last season and Derek McInnes’ side tend to make things difficult on their own patch. But Philippe Clement could have further reinforcements to call on in order to get the job done. Danilo‘s ibrox spell has been plagued by injury, but the Brazilian could be back in the squad today to provide some much needed backup to Cyriel Dessers.
Tom Lawrence and Ross McCausland could join him, although Ianis Hagi must wait. After finally being welcomed back into the fold following a transfer and contract stand off, the Romanian was sent off on his comeback against St Johnstone and will sit this one out through suspension.
Predicted Rangers XI
Provisional Rangers squad
Goalkeepers
Jack Butland
Liam Kelly
Lewis Budinauckas
Defenders
James Tavernier
Robin Propper
John Souttar
Jefte
Clinton Nsiala
Neraysho Kasanwirjo
Dujon Sterling
Robbie Fraser
Midfielders
Mohamed Diomande
Connor Barron
Nico Raskin
Kieran Dowell
Nedim Bajrami
Rabbi Matondo
Ross McCausland
Forwards
Danilo
Cyriel Dessers
Hamza Igamane
Tom Lawrence