Barisic To Return? | Predicted 4-3-3 Rangers Lineup To Face St Johnstone | OneFootball

Despite the controversial VAR call that denied them a goal, dreadful Rangers deserved the defeat against their bitter rivals Celtic at Ibrox. Michael Beale, clueless once again in terms of tactics and team selection, must script a resurgence on Saturday afternoon while locking horns with the bottom-placed St Johnstone.

Although they are yet to win a game so far this campaign, the Saints held Celtic to a scoreless draw at Parkhead. A late Max Kucheriavyi brace earned them a point against Dundee before the international break and gaffer Steven MacLean would demand another resilient performance from his men in their own backyard. Rangers, therefore, must step up their game to avoid another upset at McDiarmid Park.

Defence

It has been a tough start for Jack Butland who is the current Gers ‘number 1’ since securing a Bosman move back in the summer window. He has been roped in as the long-term successor of Allan McGregor and is expected to retain his first-team status ahead of Robby McCrorie for the upcoming fixture.

With players returning from injury, Beale now has plenty of options across the backline. Skipper James Tavernier remains irreplaceable down the right-hand side, also, left fullback Borna Barisic is likely to return to the starting XI after missing the Old Firm clash due to a minor injury concern. Connor Goldson and John Souttar must pair up in central defence in spite of strong competition from Leon Balogun and Ben Davies.

Midfield

John Lundstram must operate from the base of a three-man midfield thanks to his strong tackles, vision and build-up play from the deep. Nicholas Raskin is struggling to settle in as a ‘number 8’, but his work rate and box-to-box movements should see him featuring from the left. Jose Cifuentes should be reintegrated into the first eleven for his down-the-middle runs and quick transitions in the centre of the pitch.

Attack

Todd Cantwell must revive his form and rhythm to justify the potential. But he, as well as the manager, needs to figure out a suitable role in and around the attacking third. The former Norwich City star could be a weapon from the right, however, the left-wing role belongs to Rabbi Matondo who has revived his Rangers career. Cyriel Dessers has not shown enough traits to replicate the numbers of Alfredo Morelos or Antonio Colak. But the Nigerian is expected to spearhead the attack for his mobility and link-up football. The likes of Danilo, Kemar Roofe, Abdallah Sima and Sam Lammers might get involved at a later stage as the alternate attacking options.