Andy Halliday thinks one of two Rangers fringe players should start against Celtic

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Andy Halliday has told Open Goal’s Keeping The Ball On The Ground that Steven Gerrard should start one of two Rangers fringe players against Celtic, in the form of wingers Brandon Barker or Jordan Jones.

The Gers go up against Celtic at Parkhead on Saturday lunchtime in an Old Firm clash that is already expected to be crucial in terms of the Scottish Premiership title race. Rangers sit top, but Celtic have a game in hand and are only a point behind.

Kemar Roofe and Joe Aribo are doubts through injury, while Scott Arfield has been excelling in midfield. It leaves Gerrard with the decision to play either Ianis Hagi in a front three with Alfredo Morelos and Ryan Kent – or he turns to Barker or Jones.

Jones has started the last two games and scored against Motherwell in the 5-1 win, while Barker came on against Ross County to score late on. Halliday reckons either Jones or Barker will play over Hagi, as he believes Rangers need to play with pace.

“I would like to see them play with pace, in the front three,” Halliday said. “The way Scott Arfield has been playing in midfield, he will play there. If he plays Arfield in the front three then it is more, how do we stop Celtic.

“I don’t think many Rangers fans will agree with me, but I would play Barker or Jones. They’ve got have to have the pace. [Steven] Davis, Arfield and [Ryan] Jack and then somebody in the front three with pace with Ryan Kent.”

TBR’s view – Hagi is the best option, but form is indifferent

With Jones, he has a personal determination to impress against Celtic – given he is a boyhood Rangers fan and was sent off against Celtic last season. Barker is willing to put a tackle in, and is hard working both defensively, and attacking.

Hagi is creative and gives Rangers flair, but given his form is somewhat inconsistent at the moment, then including Jones or Barker would be a better alternative and if it does not have an impact – the Gers then have Hagi from the bench to use.

Both Jones and Barker have started just two league games each this season, but they might just hold the key to stopping Celtic.