The start of the new Scottish Premiership season is now just hours away, with Hearts and Rangers kicking off the 24/25 campaign at Tynecastle on Saturday (kick off: 12.30pm).
Philippe Clement’s Gers team will head to the capital for a tough task against Steven Naismith’s Jambos just months after they played out an entertaining 3-3 draw in the final game of last season.
With eight new signings in the door at Rangers, the likes of Jefte, Vaclav Cerny, Connor Barron and Hamza Igamane will all be pushing for starts. Rumoured new recruit Robin Pröpper could also be in line for a debut if his transfer is confirmed ahead of the clash.
Rangers target Lawrence Shankland will be expected to start for the oppositon as he looks to carry on from where he left off last season, whereas Gers stars James Tavernier and Cyriel Dessers will be unsure of a starting spot following speculation over their Ibrox futures. Kieran Dowell and Dujon Sterling both missed last weekend’s 4-4 friendly draw with Union Berlin, with former confirmed to have suffered a ‘small muscle issue’. Will he be fit in time?
So how are Rangers likely to line up against Hearts this weekend? The Scotsman predicts how Clement will set his side up for the visit to Gorgie.
1. GK: Jack Butland
The Rangers player of the year is the certified number one at Ibrox and will start the game at Tynecastle, despite competition from Scotland international Liam Kelly. | SNS Group
2. RB: James Tavernier
Rumours about his departure continue to swirl, however, he has started Rangers last two pre-season friendlies. With Dujon Sterling struggling with a minor muscle injury, we think the captain starts the season opener. | SNS Group
3. CB: John Souttar
Rangers number one centre-back now that Connor Goldson has departed, Souttar will begin the season on the right-hand side of a back four. | SNS Group
4. CB: Leon Balogun
Now 36, the Nigerian's game time will need to be managed throughout the season. However, as a trusted and dependable option at the back, Balogun is more likely to start over Ben Davies on Saturday. Incoming defender Robin Pröpper will likely start on the bench. | SNS Group Photo: SNS Group