The Rangers team to play Aberdeen in this evening’s massive Scottish Premership tie has been confirmed, with a debut for US international James Sands.
Giovanni van Bronckhorst’s first selection of the second half of the season is as follows:
Allan McGregor – James Tavernier, Connor Goldson, Calvin Bassey, Borna Barisic – Glen Kamara, James Sands – Scott Wright, Ianis Hagi, Ryan Kent – Alfredo Morelos.
On the bench is Jon McLaughlin – Jack Simpson, Leon Balogun, Leon King – John Lundstram, Juninho Bacuna, Charlie McCann – Cedric Itten, Fashion Sakala.
🆕 Tonight's #RangersFC team to face Aberdeen.
👉 Full Team News: https://t.co/6K7oINVpF7 pic.twitter.com/FnxSj6PAPR
— Rangers Football Club (@RangersFC) January 18, 2022
Rangers squad is depleted with the absence of Filip Helander, Steven Davis, Ryan Jack, Scott Arfield and Kemar Roofe. In addition to those injures, Joe Aribo remains on international duty with Nigeria.
As expected, the ‘back five’ picks itself but in midfield, a big call is apparent. USMNT rising star James Sands gets the nod ahead of John Lundstram, so it will be very interesting to see how he handles his first encounter in Scottish football.
For GvB, it’s a 4-2-3-1 in front of a vociferous away support. The recent change to sub rules means nine players to select from. Leon Balogun is a pleasant surprise inclusion, with a welcome return for Cedric Itten to our matchday squad. Young Charlie McCann has also impressed enough in training to be involved, with the continuation of his development.
Kick-off at Pittodrie is at 7.45pm