SHOCKING RANGERS LINEUP LEAK: RASKIN’S JAW-DROPPING FATE REVEALED AS DEADLINE DAY’S SECRET WEAPON EXPLODES INTO STARTING XI VS HEARTS – YOU WON’T BELIEVE WHO’S BENCHED!
Rangers prepare for crucial Ibrox showdown against in-form Hearts
Russell Martin remains without a victory in the Scottish Premiership and is facing immense pressure to turn things around after a miserable start to life in charge.
Rangers managed a goalless draw with Celtic in their previous outing, but deadline day saw two reinforcements arrive as Derek Cornelius and Youssef Chermiti signed for the club.
Now, with Hearts arriving at Ibrox in fine form, the visitors will be keen to pile more misery on Martin by securing a statement win.
Cornelius set for debut against Hearts
Changes are expected in order to freshen up a flat Rangers side, and one of the most obvious switches would be to hand Cornelius his full debut.
The Canadian centre-back looks set to partner John Souttar in defence, taking the place of Nasser Djiga after a series of shaky showings.
Midfield could also see rotation. Nicolas Raskin, who was recently frozen out, is in contention to return after a potential transfer away failed to materialise.
That may come at the expense of Connor Barron, a surprise starter in the Old Firm clash.
Out wide, Mikey Moore may drop out, with Djeidi Gassama shifting across to the left and Oliver Antman returning on the opposite flank.
Leading the attack will be Bojan Miovski, who continues to search for his first Rangers goal after featuring against Celtic.
Predicted XI vs Hearts: Butland; Tavernier, Souttar, Cornelius, Meghoma; Raskin, Diomande; Antman, Aasgaard, Gassama; Miovski.
A must-win game for Martin
For Rangers to have any hope of competing this season, three points are absolutely essential.
Failure to beat Hearts could push Martin to the brink, with the Ibrox atmosphere threatening to turn more toxic than it has been in years.
The recent signings provide some optimism, while Miovski will aim to break his duck and offer much-needed firepower.
However, defensive frailties and attacking bluntness have been recurring themes under Martin, leaving fans desperate for a performance that delivers both a clean sheet and goals.
A convincing win against a strong Hearts side may be the only way for Martin to begin easing the mounting pressure and prove his tenure is not doomed to failure.
