Rangers v Kilmarnock – Team news confirmed as Clement makes left-back call, tactics hint with striker decision.
Tonight’s match between Rangers and Kilmarnock is expected to be one of Philippe Clement’s hardest since moving to Glasgow.
Despite a few important players from his side absent due to injuries, the manager of the Greens will be seeking for a repeat of the 3-1 victory they had at Ibrox in their first 2024 match before the Christmas break.
Kilmarnock must contend with Derek McInnes’s well-organized team, like he always does, when they take on Rangers.
Kilmarnock vs. Rangers: Team news is confirmed
Although Jack Butland’s victory over Hearts on Saturday was easy, he still had to make a few fast stops. His form has put him in the running for an England recall.
Tonight, he’ll need to be extra cautious, especially with set pieces.
Although Clement has been switching up his lineup, there is a strong case for a steady defense to foster stronger alliances, particularly on the left side where there are typically more rotations.
While Ridvan Yilmaz is demonstrating his true potential and aligning well with the gaffer’s concept, Borna Barisic has experience in this role and is aware of what is required.
With how full the fixture list is, there would be advantages and disadvantages to either call.
Without Todd Cantwell, Philippe Clement has more to consider in midfield.
He surprised Hearts by having Mohamed Diomande and Tom Lawrence, his offensive tandem, operate in front of John Lundstram.
Diomande has made an immediate impact, but the Ivorian’s advantage is that he is new to the team, having just participated in preseason training prior to joining.
Dujon Sterling is another example; at Ibrox over the weekend, he was preferred on the right side of the attack.
The adaptability of the former Chelsea academy product may be useful in the upcoming weeks and months, but he will only play a supporting role tonight as Ross McCausland makes his comeback.
The reason Clement chose to go with Cyriel Dessers over Fabio Silva must have been his suggestion that a more direct approach is required on a field that isn’t always ideal for quick, free-flowing football.
As long as we don’t move too far and avoid the midfield too much, there will be room in behind, but it appears that we will be attempting to press high and get the ball up to Silva fast.
Philippe Clement has selected the following players as Rangers attempt to defeat Kilmarnock and hold onto first place:
The manager always stresses the significance of energy and intensity, saying that if we get those properly, the outcomes ought to follow.
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