OPINION
With the international break over it is time for Rangers boss Steven Gerrard to turn his attentions back to the domestic campaign, with Dundee in the firing line next.
The Gers have had two weeks to stew over their disappointing 1-0 defeat to fierce rivals Celtic but face the opportunity to bounce back with a clash against the side sitting bottom of the Premiership table.
Gerrard has been pretty faithful to his first choice stars even when they have been under-performing this season but it is time for the niceties to stop and for the former Liverpool man to get brutal with the axe.
As such, senior trio Nikola Katic, Ryan Jack and Alfredo Morelos, who all started against Celtic, need to be binned from the XI against Dundee, with new defensive giant Gareth McAuley, experienced midfielder Andy Halliday and star winger Daniel Candeias taking their places.
At the back, 6’2″ (source: Transfermarkt) McAuley needs to be thrown into the deep end for his first start at Ibrox, with his experience set to play an important role in keeping the defensive line resolute throughout the season.
In midfield, Jack looked lost against the Hoops and as such Halliday must replace him, demonstrating that Gerrard is not prepared to have passengers in his starting XI.
Rangers missed the width and pace that Candeias brings to the side in defeat at Celtic Park, and Ryan Kent also needs to be moved to a wider position to provide Kyle Lafferty with the service he will thrive off, having been forced out wide to accommodate Morelos.
It might be a shock move from Gerrard but it is what is needed after an abject display against Celtic – and it should kick start their domestic campaign after a slow start.