- Danny Rohl confirms Rangers need “new leaders” ahead of major summer rebuild at Ibrox.
- Connor Barron pushing for midfield role as Rangers look to recover from three straight defeats.
- James Tavernier set for emotional final Ibrox appearance against Hibernian.
Rangers return to Ibrox on Wednesday evening needing both a result and a response after a damaging run of defeats that has intensified scrutiny around Danny Rohl and his squad.
Losses to Motherwell, Hearts and Celtic have left Rangers limping toward the end of the campaign, with supporters questioning mentality, leadership and tactical consistency after a collapse in the title race.
Rohl himself admitted the last fortnight had fundamentally sharpened the club’s thinking ahead of the summer rebuild.
“Maybe you go from a grey to a black picture,” he said when discussing recruitment decisions after the recent defeats.
The German also confirmed significant squad changes are expected this summer.
“We need new leaders, more leaders for the dressing room to set our standards,” he explained.
With James Tavernier preparing for his final match at Ibrox before an expected departure, Wednesday night carries emotional significance as well as competitive importance.
However, attendance for his sendoff is expected to be low, with those who are planning to attend not happy with yet another collapse under pressure.
It has also called questions into the suitability of a summer testimonial for the skipper.
James Tavernier set for final Ibrox bow
Jack Butland is expected to continue in goal despite speculation surrounding his future.
Tavernier should start at right back for what Rohl hopes will become a fitting farewell occasion for the long-serving captain.
With a change later in the game for Dujon Sterling or Max Aarons could allow him for one final applause from the support.
Rohl said he hopes for a fitting departure for the 34-year-old.
“He deserved it,” said the Rangers boss on the skipper.
“He loves the club and he made the decision finally. I really respect him.”
Tavernier’s first Ibrox goal came against Hibernian back in August 2015.
At centre-back, Emmanuel Fernandez remains one of the first names on the teamsheet after emerging as a vocal figure inside the dressing room during recent criticism.
John Souttar may return alongside him after missing the Celtic defeat with injury, with Nasser Djiga set for a summer return to Wolves.
Tuur Rommens should continue at left-back after his comeback from injury.
Connor Barron in line for key midfield role
Midfield remains one of the biggest tactical questions for Rohl.
Connor Barron’s returned against Celtic with a mixed performance.
However, with Nico Raskin still expected to be out with a hamstring injury his options in the middle are limited.
The former Aberdeen midfielder is expected to partner Tochi Chukwuani in a deeper midfield pairing, allowing Mohamed Diomande more freedom ahead of them.
Attack needs sharper edge
Rangers’ front line has lacked consistency in recent weeks, but Rohl is unlikely to make sweeping changes.
Mikey Moore’s direct running should retain his place.
On the opposite wing Djeidi Gassama’s pace and willingness to attack defenders could again prove important against a Hibernian side likely to defend aggressively at Ibrox.
Rohl has rotated the right wing slot, with four different players utilized in the past four games, to diminishing results.
Youssef Chermiti is expected to continue leading the line with Ryan Naderi still being eased back from injury.
Rohl admitted the squad now faces a crucial challenge to change the mood before the summer.
“The last impression before a summer break should be a very positive one,” he said.
“Tomorrow, put everything on and take the right result.”
Predicted Rangers XI: Butland; Tavernier, Fernandez, Souttar, Rommens; Barron, Chukwuani, Diomande; Moore, Gassama, Chermiti
