Rangers predicted lineup vs St. Mirren - Scottish Premiership
By Max Parsons
The first phase of the Scottish Premiership concludes this weekend, with Rangers in need of a victory as they visit St. Mirren on Sunday.
The Gers have experienced a poor week on the field, having lost pivotal games in the previous two outings. Last weekend's devastating 2-1 defeat to Celtic at Ibrox extended the gap at the league summit to six points, while their 1-0 loss at Braga gives them a tough task to advance in the Europa League.
A win should be forthcoming this weekend, though, as they face a St. Mirren side that has lost six of its last seven and is battling relegation. Here's how the visitors could shape up.
1. Goalkeeper & defenders
Allan McGregor (GK) - The 40-year-old is set for his 22nd consecutive league start here.
James Tavernier (RB) - Will surely start and skipper the side for a 25th time in succession in the Scottish Premiership.
Connor Goldson (CB) - A key part of this Gers back line, Goldson is set for his 32nd league appearance of the campaign here.
Filip Helander (CB) - After playing in Portugal on Thursday, Leon Balogun could be afforded a rest, giving Helander an opportunity at the heart of defence.
Calvin Bassey (LB) - Performed well on Thursday night and should be in line to retain his spot for a 13th successive start across all competitions.
2. Midfielders
Ryan Jack (CM) - Could be deployed as the anchoring midfielder behind the more attacking presences ahead of him.
Scott Arfield (CM) - Should be in line to retain his place in the starting XI, after having to settle for a substitute cameo against Celtic last weekend.
Aaron Ramsey (CM) - An unused substitute against Braga, the Welshman should come back into the fold following his goal against Celtic last time out.
3. Forwards
Joe Aribo (RW) - Has largely been a reliable performer on the right flank this term and, having started on the bench in midweek, could come back into the starting lineup here.
Kemar Roofe (ST) - In Alfredo Morelos' injury-enforced absence, Roofe should come back into the side in place of Fashion Sakala.
Ryan Kent (LW) - An injury-hampered campaign has seen him net just twice in the league this term, although his tally of ten assists is much more up to his usual standards.