Rangers have announced their lineup for the crucial away clash with St Mirren. Russell Martin is under severe pressure from the Ibrox support to deliver a victory, and a performance.
While the board remain willing to give the head coach time, the fans are growing restless after back-to-back draws, and the atmosphere threatens to turn toxic.
Rangers head into today’s match already seven points adrift of Celtic, albeit with a game in hand to be played this afternoon against a side in the Saints that they have failed to beat in the past three attempts.
A string of poor displays culminated in Tuesday’s 3–1 defeat to Club Brugge at Ibrox, leaving the club facing a daunting task in next week’s Champions League playoff second leg in Belgium. In response, Martin has shaken things up.
Mohammed Diomande and Danilo have been dropped, with the suspended Nasser Djiga also absent.
Into the side come Lyall Cameron, Emmanuel Fernandez, and Thelo Aasgaard, who makes his first start for the club.
St Mirren vs Rangers: How to watch, kick off time, team news and match officials
Inside Ibrox XI predications: Who starts for Rangers in must win clash vs St Mirren
Hamza Igamane not ready to start as Rangers face St Mirren test
With no recognised striker on the pitch, it remains to be seen who will lead the line in Paisley. Alieu Gassama would be the obvious choice, but the official team sheet suggests Aasgaard will spearhead the attack.
The Norwegian boasts a respectable goal record across his career but has largely operated as a midfielder, breaking forward from deeper positions.
With Hamza Igamane and Danilo among the substitutes, options are available, though the decision to prefer a midfielder in a makeshift role may cast further doubt over the striking duo’s futures.
Meanwhile, Cyriel Dessers remains sidelined after limping off against Viktoria Plzen two weeks ago, with talk of a quick recovery looking increasingly fanciful as each game passes.
It is a bold call from the former Southampton boss, one that simply must pay off. A fast start is essential this afternoon, or the tension from the stands could become unbearable for Martin and his players.