Rangers continue their defence of the League Cup back on home soil as Dundee make the trip to Ibrox.

Philippe Clement's men dispatched St Johnstone in the previous round at Hampden while the Dark Blues have impressed on their way to the last eight with big-scoring wins over Airdrieonians and Inverness after progressing past the group stage earlier in the season.

How will Rangers shape up against Tony Docherty's side? Our writers select their starting XIs for the clash.

Read more:

Chris Jack

Philippe Clement insisted the upcoming Europa League tie with Malmo will have no bearing on his selection for the visit of Dundee and the return to Ibrox this evening. The League Cup clash does, though, offer the Belgian a chance to rotate the team and manage minutes of certain players.

James Tavernier has not hit his peak so far this term and sitting out one fixture could just be the rest that he needs. At some point, supporters need to see what Dujon Sterling is really capable of at right-back and this looks like a good opportunity to give him a game.

Clement ruled out Ridvan Yilmaz, Danilo and Rabbi Matondo and stated that the squad would be the same as the one that travelled to Tannadice. If that is the case and Vaclav Cerny misses out, the right wing spot should go to Ross McCausland rather than Kieran Dowell.

Nicolas Raskin could do with a run-out and this is an ideal chance for Nedim Bajrami to make an impact after being handed his debut off the bench. Another substitute last weekend, Hamza Igamane, must be pushing for a place. Many supporters would like to see him get the nod.

(Image: RR)

Derek Clark

Philippe Clement didn't make too many alterations in the previous round so it's unlikely he'll do so for this one. That being said, there are fringe players who should be in with a shout of starting.

We start with the position of goalkeeper. Jack Butland hasn't been in the best of form for some time now but he is Clement's undisputed No.1 so he is unlikely to be sidelined. Liam Kelly is a dependable goalkeeper, however, and deserves an opportunity between the sticks for this game. 

As for the backline, there is an argument to keep the defence the way it is to build continuity. Leon Balogun will be pushing for a start but keeping John Souttar and Robin Propper in place seems like a sensible route to go down. James Tavernier has played every game so far and has been off the pace. Dujon Sterling or Neraysho Kasanwirjo would represent decent alternatives while Robbie Fraser will be hoping for game time on the opposite flank. Jefte has been in good form though so Fraser may have to be content with a place on the bench.

In midfield, despite netting the winner against Dundee United, Tom Lawrence surely has to make way for Nedim Bajrami. The Albanian was brought in to be the No.10 so let's see him in his favoured positon. The impressive Connor Barron retains his place while Nico Raskin should be in with a shout of starting in place of Mohamed Diomande.

The forward line is interesting. Vaclav Cerny will surely return after his bout of illness while Oscar Cortes should start his second match in a row. Who leads the line is the big question. Does Hamza Igamane get 45 to 60 minutes or does he come off the bench again? Many would like to see the Moroccan start, including this writer.

(Image: RR)