Rangers play the first of their games in hand next week against Hibernian at Easter Road and it is sure to be the usual fast-paced and high-tempo encounter.
Nick Montgomery has Hibs moving in the right direction in sixth place although recent results have been inconsistent as he faces Gers boss Philippe Clement for the first time.
Injuries are an issue for the Rangers squad as is the absence of Abdallah Sima, however, Hibernian have been hit just as hard with one international result significantly weakening the capital outfit.Getty Images
Rangers to face weakened HIbernian side
Lewis Miller, their first choice right-back, Rocky Bushiri, a starter at centre-half and Jojo Wollacott, their back-up keeper will be missed but it is a previous scourge of the Light Blues that will be most sorely felt.Martin Boyle, who was loosely linked with Rangers before returning to Edinburgh, is Hibs talisman and he has frequently caused us problems in the past.
None more-so than his Hampden hat-trick for Hibernian in the 2021 league cup semi-final as he capitalised on Rangers lack of pace at the back and defensive frailty.
With Australia beating Syria 1-0, the Kangaroos are through to the last 16 of the Asia Cup where they will now have to wait until the 28th of January to play again.Rangers play Hibs four days earlier.
With two key figures from their defence missing and their go-to man upfront also away, Philippe Clement will be hoping that early pressure can be applied to a team who will know that they are weaker than normal.
Montgomery has strengthened though with the signing of Myziane Maolida from Hertha Berlin – I can’t remember him playing against us in Spain either – a player who was once highly thought of and is looking to kick-start his career.
With a similar profile to Boyle, it is clear why the Hibs boss has brought him in.
Hopefully though, his recent inactivity will see him needing some time to get up to speed.
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