After another season that failed to take off, Rangers will be hoping to turn things around when the next season comes around.
The Gers finished the 2017/18 season placed 3rd in the Scottish Premiership and could only go as far as the semifinals in the cup competitions while their UEFA Europa League journey crashed at the qualifier stages.
There were two managerial sackings, with Pedro Caixinha and his replacement Graeme Murty both being shown the doors. The responsibility to lead the team to success has now fallen to Steven Gerrard.
The Liverpool legend has been appointed the man in charge and has already kicked off his recruitment campaign with the signings of Scott Arfield, goalkeeper Allan McGregor and Jamie Murphy.
However, more strengthening of the squad is very much needed over the summer if they are to challenge rivals Celtic for the title.
Having said that, here’s how the Light Blues could line up next season if they manage to wrap up two major transfer deals.
Probable Rangers XI
Allan McGregor (GK)
The 36-year-old fan favourite is back at the Ibrox on a two-year deal, after his contract expiry with Hull City. While the incumbent Wes Foderingham has done well for the Gers, it wouldn’t be a surprise to see Gerrard lean on the senior pro to lead the team from the back.
James Tavernier (RB)
The English full-back was one of the Gers’ best players of the season despite his form fading in the final few games. He was strong in defence, purposeful on the overlap and should retain his spot at right-back.
Ross McCrorie (CB)
The 20-year-old has been tipped for a bright future and has shown signs that he can develop into a defensive mainstay for Rangers. Needs to find the element of consistency in his game. However, should be entrusted with the responsibility at the back next season.
Martin Skrtel (CB)
The 33-year-old former Liverpool man has been strongly linked with a move to the Ibrox of late and there have been reports of the Gers submitting an offer to Fenerbahce in order to sign him. If they manage to get the deal over the line, it will be a major coup for Rangers, given the volumes of experience and the know-how that Skrtel will be bringing to the table.
Declan John (LB)
The Welsh left-back has had a brilliant debut season with the Light Blues and is without a question the undoubted first-choice for the last spot in the defence, especially with captain Lee Wallace facing an uncertain future at the club.
Greg Docherty (CM)
The 21-year-old Scottish midfielder was off to a blazing start to life at Ibrox, having signed in January but saw his form dwindle towards the business end of the season. Despite an inconsistent start, Docherty’s quality is quite evident and he has what it takes to make a difference for the Gers next season.
Jordan Rossiter (CM)
The former Liverpool midfielder is highly thought of within the Glasgow club but hasn’t been able to make much of an impression, having spent almost the entirety of the season out on the sidelines. Partnering him alongside Docherty may seem like a risk given their lack of experience but could reap great rewards for the club.
Daniel Candeias (RW)
The Portuguese winger finished the 2017/18 campaign as the highest assist-maker in the Scottish Premiership. His excellent work-rate and the partnership that he struck up with Tavernier on the right-hand side will give him the edge over new signing Scott Arfield.
Josh Windass (CAM)
The English midfielder enjoyed a fine season, finishing with 18 goals and 8 assists in 41 games in all competitions. May have tailed off a bit towards the back end of the campaign but should be the preferred choice for the No.10 role.
Jamie Murphy (LW)
The 28-year-old sealed a permanent move to the Ibrox from Brighton & Hove Albion, having impressed heavily in the second half of the season. His arrival on loan added more bite to the Gers’ attack and that should see him own the starting spot on the left-hand side once again next season.
Oli McBurnie (ST)
While Alfredo Morelos had a very good debut season with the Gers, his suspect finishing at times cost the club dearly and as a result, they have been looking at Swansea City’s Oli McBurnie as a potential target. The 21-year-old, a boyhood Rangers supporter, had a terrific campaign on loan with EFL Championship side Barnsley last time out and could provide further impetus in the attack for the Gers if signed.
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