This weekend marks the beginning of the Premiership title race’s split phase, with the Rangers preparing to take on Motherwell on Sunday afternoon. Currently, they trail Hearts by a single point, putting pressure on the league leaders who will face Hibernian later that evening in the Edinburgh derby at Easter Road.
Under Jens Berthel Askou, Motherwell has been impressive as they chase a European spot. In their last encounter, the teams shared the points at Fir Park, but Rangers secured a narrow 1-0 victory at home back in December, thanks to a second-half strike from Thelo Aasgaard.
Expected 4-2-3-1 Rangers Lineup Against Motherwell
Defense
Despite conceding three goals in a recent nine-goal thriller against Falkirk, Rangers maintain one of the league’s strongest defensive records, largely due to James Butland‘s solid presence in goal. While it’s uncertain if his contract will be extended beyond this season, the experienced English keeper must continue his strong form to help Rangers clinch the title.
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND – DECEMBER 27: Thelo Aasgaard of Rangers celebrates after scoring during the Premier League match between Rangers and Motherwell at Ibrox Stadium on December 27, 2025 (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images).
Captain James Tavernier has announced he will depart Rangers at the end of the season, concluding an eventful 11-year tenure. Manager Danny Rohl is likely to continue using him for the remaining matches, though Max Aarons and Dujon Sterling provide solid alternatives on the right. Nasser Djiga has recently supplanted John Souttar as the preferred partner for Emmanuel Fernandez in central defense. The return of Tuur Roomens to training is a significant boost, as the Belgian has been a standout since his arrival in January, and he is expected to step in for Jayden Meghoma in the starting lineup.
Midfield
Tochi Chukwuani and Nicolas Raskin both scored against Falkirk while operating as a ‘double pivot’ in midfield. Mohamed Diomande and Connor Barron might also feature, although they could only be utilized as substitutes in the second half.
With Ryan Naderi’s season-ending injury, Aasgaard has a chance to shine as an advanced playmaker. Andreas Skov Olsen is being closely monitored for fitness issues, but Mikey Moore is expected to recover in time to retain his position on the left wing. Djeidi Gassama will aim to showcase his skills from the right, with both Oliver Antman and Nedim Bajrami potentially coming off the bench to inject more attacking energy.
Attack
A brace against Falkirk has solidified Youssef Chermiti‘s status as the first-choice striker. Meanwhile, Bojan Miovski is also enjoying a strong run of form, having netted twice after coming off the bench in the previous match. The North Macedonian ‘number 9’ could pose a threat again as a substitute, thanks to his goal-scoring instincts.