Rangers Prediction: Probable XI to face Stranraer FC in the Scottish Cup

Rangers are back in action as they welcome Stranraer FC at the Ibrox in the fourth round of the Scottish Cup.

Before the winter break, the Gers ended their Celtic Park hoodoo and landed a psychological blow to Neil Lennon’s side, trimming the gap to two points with a game in hand. They are looking strong in the Premiership and are aiming for the first trophy under Steven Gerrard.

Having narrowly missed out on the Betfred Cup after losing to arch-rivals Celtic in the final in December, Gerrard and his team must aim to win the Scottish Cup this term.

Team News

Filip Helander got injured in the League Cup final defeat to Celtic last month and it could well take some time before he gets close to a return.

Rangers Prediction: Probable XI

Formation: 4-3-3

Allan McGregor (GK)

McGregor has been in brilliant form between the sticks this season. He would retain his spot as he is the first choice.

James Tavernier (RB)

The skipper has always been impressive going forward and contributes to the team’s attacks. A key member of the squad, Tavernier will start at right-back.

Nikola Katic (CB)

The Croatian scored the winner against Celtic last month and did well. He should continue in central defence.

George Edmundson (CB)

Goldson has been a regular fixture throughout the season, so Gerrard can afford to give him some rest and hand a start to George Edmundson. A summer signing from Oldham Athletic, Edmundson must grab the opportunity with both hands.

Jon Flanagan (LB)

Flanagan is in need of game time, having played just seven games so far this season. He could be handed an opportunity at left-back.

Glen Kamara (LCM)

Kamara has been one of Rangers’ best players this campaign and should start in the midfield against a lowly Stranraer FC side.

Ryan Jack (CDM)

Jack has often been used in an advanced role this season but he could find himself in a deeper position on Friday in the Scottish Cup.

Scott Arfield (RCM)

Capable of making runs from deeper positions rather than playing with his back facing the goal, Arfield seems to have found his mojo back.

Brandon Barker (RW)

Barker has failed to impress since joining Rangers this past summer. Against Stranraer FC in the Scottish Cup, he could be handed a start, though.

Sheyi Ojo (LW)

On loan from Liverpool, Ojo impressed in the friendly fixture against Lokomotiv Tashkent at the Dubai Sevens Stadium last week, contributing a goal and an assist. He should be handed a start in the fourth round of the Scottish Cup.

Read more

• Why Rangers offloading Eros Grezda is an ideal move by Gerrard
• Why Steven Gerrard must get the best out of Glenn Middleton
• Why Rangers should go all out to sign Feyenoord’s Renato Tapia

Jermain Defoe (ST)

With 14 goals in all competitions this season, Defoe is likely to be given the nod to lead the Rangers attack against Stranraer FC on Friday.