Who starts for Rangers as they entertain Hearts on Sunday will be almost as intriguing as the game and result.
Long-time captain James Tavernier was dropped to the bench for Thursday’s Europa League draw with Olympiakos – and then Neraysho Kasanwirjo was preferred as a replacement right-back for Dujon Sterling during the second half.
Philippe Clement put the decision down to managing the game time of the ageing Englishman – and needing more than one captain, with goalkeeper Jack Butland handed the armband.
However, it has led to speculation about Tavernier’s future in the side given his legendary goal and assist contributions are no longer outweighing his oft mentioned defensive frailties amid a difficult start to the season for his side.
It is Vaclav Cerny who has picked up the baton as Rangers’ most potent attacking force.
Clement was advised by his medical team against using the Czech Republic winger in so many consecutive games earlier in the season, but it would be hard to leave out someone who has scored four goals in his five home appearances in the Premiership, including three in his last two.
Especially so given Hearts have held Rangers to draws in their latest two meetings and arrive having earned praise for their performance despite losing 2-0 at home to Heidenheim in the Conference League.
They have also accumulated seven points in four league games under Neil Critchley – as many as the previous 12 before he was appointed head coach.
With or without Cerny and Tavernier, however, third-top Rangers will start strong favourites against the second-bottom side given they have won seven in a row at home domestically this season and are unbeaten in 16 meetings against Hearts, winning 12, both overall and at Ibrox.
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