Rangers manager Derek McInnes looks ready to change his starting line-up for the Premier Sports Cup semi-final against Aberdeen at Hampden, with Ben Godfrey and Tuur Rommens among those in contention for a recall.
The Light Blues needed a last-minute goal from Olwethu Makhanya to secure a 2-2 draw against Hearts at Tynecastle. That result followed a draw with Dundee, and McInnes faced criticism from some Rangers supporters for his team selection in both matches.
Defensive concerns
Makhanya's display in the capital caused some anxiety within the team at key moments. He was caught ball-watching as Claudio Braga scored the equaliser, and the Hearts forward later came close to adding a third goal after breaking free on the touchline.
McInnes defended the 6ft 4ins centre-half at his pre-match press conference, insisting the defender kept St Johnstone at bay almost on his own last weekend. However, he has also praised Ben Godfrey's attitude and commitment in training, suggesting the time may be right to reward the defender with a start against Stephen Robinson's struggling Aberdeen side.
Midfield and attack changes
Makhanya questioned his team's character after the Hearts game and admitted the side looked leggy. James Penrice, who has impressed since joining on loan from AEK Athens, struggled against Sabah Kerjota and could make way for Tuur Rommens, who is back fit after being one of the team's top performers last season following his move from Westerlo in January.
Djeidi Gassama, who was given a surprise start at Tynecastle, is expected to drop to the bench after being off the pace. Badredine Bouanani came on with half an hour to play in Edinburgh and added a sharper edge to Rangers' attacking play, so the Algerian is tipped for a recall at Hampden.
Record Sport predicts Rangers will line up in a 4-4-2 formation: Pandur - Sterling, Godfrey, Makhanya, Rommens - Bouanani, Neil, Raskin, Kim - Naderi, Kelsy.
