Preview: Aberdeen v Rangers – Rotation, Redemption, and the Return of Danilo?

The rollercoaster ride that is supporting Rangers hits the tracks again today – and we’re off to Pittodrie for a 12 noon showdown. Fresh from the high of Thursday night’s gritty, against-the-odds draw with Athletic Club – where 10-man Rangers dug deep in the Europa League quarter-final first leg – we now face an entirely different kind of challenge: domestic focus, with a rotated squad, in a pressure-free league fixture.

From European Grit to Domestic Graft

Let’s be real – last weekend’s limp display against Hibernian still stings. A Rangers side that looked flat, lifeless, and lacking urgency let fans down. But Thursday’s European effort showed there’s still fire in the belly of this team when it matters.

So which version of Rangers turns up at Pittodrie?

Rotation Is the Sensible Move

With second place in the league effectively secured and no threat from below, this is a rare moment of breathing space. There’s zero competitive logic in risking key names ahead of the massive second leg in Bilbao. And with several players needing minutes, now is the perfect opportunity to rest the heavy legs and test squad depth.

Injury Setbacks: Sterling’s Cruel Blow

The biggest blow this week? Dujon Sterling’s season – and possibly the start of his next – is over. The Achilles injury he picked up against Athletic Club is a brutal end to a couple of really strong performances. Barry Ferguson said it best – Sterling had been “immense” since returning from a broken leg. You have to feel for him.

Bailey Rice also misses out after a nasty knock to the back of his neck led to concussion. Thankfully, the boss confirmed he was up and moving in the changing room post-match – good news for the young midfielder’s recovery.

Who’s In?

With Robin Propper suspended for the second leg in Spain, he’s a lock-in to start today. Expect to see Clinton Nsiala and Rafael Fernandes step into the backline, with James Tavernier likely the only usual starter to retain his place. Jefte should complete the defence.

Liam Kelly – man of the match in midweek – is expected to take the gloves again. And why not? He earned it.

Midfield will have a different look, with Nedim Bajrami potentially getting a chance to rebuild confidence alongside Nicolas Raskin and Connor Barron. Bajrami’s struggled lately, and this could be the kind of low-stakes platform he needs to find his spark.

Up Top: The Duo We Want to See

We’re desperate to see Danilo link up with Hamza Igamane again. There’s potential in this partnership – Danilo playing in the hole behind the promising young striker, allowing Igamane to take up central spaces and drive at the defence.

Predicted Starting XI

Goalkeeper:
Liam Kelly

Defence:
James Tavernier (C)
Robin Propper
Rafael Fernandes
Clinton Nsiala
Jefte

Midfield:
Nedim Bajrami
Nicolas Raskin
Connor Barron

Attack:
Danilo
Hamza Igamane

The Opposition: Aberdeen’s Eyes on Europe

Aberdeen are fighting tooth and nail to secure third spot, currently sitting 5th with just a point and a handful of goals separating them from Hibs and Dundee United. They’ll view this as a big opportunity to take advantage of a rotated Rangers side and pile on the pressure in the race for Europe.

Final Thoughts

Today’s not about league position – it’s about momentum, minutes, and giving fringe players their shot. It’s also about making sure the squad heads to Spain next week with the confidence and rhythm to finish the job.

Let’s see a performance with energy, hunger, and no fear – the type that reminds us why we back this club through every twist and turn.

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