Rangers are back in action on Saturday evening as we head to Dens Park to take on Dundee, with the team looking to build on the momentum of that massive win over Celtic. The focus now shifts to Barry Ferguson and the decisions he must make as interim boss — and there’s plenty to weigh up.
The mood in the camp is positive, but Ferguson hinted in his pre-match press conference that one or two players are carrying slight knocks. The big dilemma? Stick with the back five that brought success recently, or revert to a more traditional back four?
From what we’re seeing, we think Barry is going to stick with three centre-backs — and it makes sense for this one. Dundee will try to make it physical, especially up top, and we’ll need to match that intensity from the first whistle.
🧤 Between the Sticks & At the Back
Jack Butland is a guaranteed starter. That’s an easy one. In front of him, we’re going with a back three of Balogun, Souttar and Sterling. Souttar has been a rock at the back and Sterling’s pace and versatility could be key in dealing with any Dundee breakaways. Balogun brings that aerial presence and composure needed when teams try to go long.
🛡️ Wing-Backs: High and Wide
The wing-back spots are where it gets interesting. We’re backing James Tavernier to start on the right and Ridvan Yılmaz on the left. Tav’s creativity is just too valuable to be pinned in defence — and with Sterling offering cover behind him, we expect to see him bombing forward, especially against a likely low block from Dundee.
Ridvan has looked sharp since coming back into the side, while Jefte’s form has dipped. It’s now Ridvan’s jersey to lose, and we back him to take full advantage
🎯 Midfield Trio to Control the Game
The midfield three picks itself right now. Raskin, Barron, and Diomande — full of energy, creativity, and control. Diomande has really come into his own with more support around him, and Barron’s return adds steel and composure. Raskin, fresh from international duty, brings that drive we’ll need to pin Dundee back and control the tempo.
🔥 Up Front: Cerny and a Tough Call
Up top, Cerny is an easy pick. He might play slightly off the striker, operating in those pockets where he can link midfield to attack and cause problems.
The real decision is who leads the line. Dessers has been in among the goals, but this might not be the ideal game for him. He thrives in open space, and Dundee aren’t likely to give us much of that. So we’re giving the nod to Igamane. Strong, creative, and sharp in front of goal — he could be exactly what Rangers need to unlock a stubborn defence.
🧠 Tactical Shape: Back Five, But Not Defensive
On paper, this looks like five at the back — but in practice, it’s anything but defensive. We expect Ridvan and Tavernier to push high, effectively forming a five-man midfield when in possession. The goal? Overload the middle, stretch Dundee wide, and create openings in the final third.
Team Predictions – Dundee v Rangers
Goalkeeper:
Jack Butland
Defence:
James Tavernier (c)
Dujon Sterling
John Souttar
Leon Balogun
Ridvan Yilmaz
Midfield:
Nicolas Raskin
Mohamed Diomande
Connor Barron
Forwards:
Vaclav Cerny
Hamza Igamane
📣 Final Word
This is a big test for Barry Ferguson. Tactical balance is key, but with the quality in this side and confidence high, there’s every reason to believe Rangers can come away with another vital three points.
Let’s keep the momentum going. Mon the Gers! 🔵⚪️🔴
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