Predicted Rangers Lineup With Bruno Alves And Carlos Pena In The Team
Italian side Cagliari have confirmed that Portugal international Bruno Alves has left the club and he has signed for Rangers. The 35-year-old centre-back made 36 appearances for the Serie A side and has been capped 89 times by his country and is now expected to lead the rebuild of Pedro Caixinha’s squad.
Next up could be Mexican international Carlos Pena. The 27-year-old has played 19 times so far for his nation and would prove to be an exciting signing for the Gers. Graham Dorrans of Norwich is also expected to follow suit in what could be an excellent start to the transfer window for Caixinha.
Here’s an early look at how Rangers could line up with their new boys:
GK – Wes Foderingham
Foderingam played all but one of Rangers’ league games last season in goal and so far looks on course to be retained.
RB – James Tavernier
The 25-year-old needs to up his game now after an excellent season at Championship level. Though he has not reached his peak yet, he has plenty of potential.
CB – David Bates
The young defender impressed when given his chance by Caixinha and could be mentored by Alves next term.
CB – Bruno Alves
About to become the elder statesman in the Rangers back line, Alves would be a huge asset for Rangers as he would add some unbelievable amount of experience to the back line.
LB – Lee Wallace
The skipper, once back fit, could be an influential figure once more from left-back.
CM – Graham Dorrans
Still undoubtedly of Premier League quality in England, should Rangers manage to land the player who supported them as a boy it would prove to be a real coup.
CM – Carlos Pena
Another rock solid, no-nonsense midfielder to add steel to the line-up. Pena would bring a certain aggression to the team that was much needed last year.
RW – Joe Dodoo
The young former Leicester winger has not hit the heights yet at Rangers but has all the attributes of a player who should do well in this league and can yet go on and be a star in the Premiership.
CAM – Jamie Barjonas
The Scotland under-17 international could be given his chance next season after impressing manager Caixinha. A supporting role to the front man may turn out to be his niche.
LW – Barrie McKay
Although not breaking through in quite the spectacular fashion some fans hoped last season, McKay remains a player with huge potential.
ST – Kenny Miller
The veteran can play here or in a deeper role. Either way, he did not let the club down last season and retains all of his ability.