Rangers travel to Pittodrie for tonight's powderkeg clash with Aberdeen.

The Dons have started the season well and sit joint-top of the Premiership table, six points ahead of Philippe Clement's men.

Could a victory act as a springboard for Rangers' stuttering season so far?

Our writers select their starting XIs for the match.

Chris Jack

The main call that Clement must make is at the back. The return of John Souttar is a bonus but the manager confirmed there as doubts over how many minutes he can play at Pittodrie. As a result, Souttar appears unlikely to start.

Robin Propper has come in for some criticism after his showing against St Mirren. A lack of pace and physicality could be even more badly exposed this evening and Neraysho Kasanwirjo should get the nod alongside Leon Balogun.

The front three of Vaclav Cerny, Nedim Bajrami and Cyriel Dessers picks itself. In behind them, two spots - those for Nicolas Raskin and Connor Barron - pick themselves.

The last place is between Dujon Sterling and Mohamed Diomande. If Clement plays a No.10 then Diomande starts. If he goes for a more robust presence then Sterling suits that role. That call will be indicative and interesting.

 

(Image: RR)

Derek Clark

Philippe Clement has a big decision to make at the heart of his defence. Robin Propper was unconvincing to say the least against St Mirren and you'd imagine Aberdeen would look to target him this evening.

With that in mind, Rangers need more physicality and Neraysho Kasanwirjo would surely be the ideal replacement. He moved centrally on Sunday when Propper was hooked and the Ibrox club looked better for it. John Souttar will likely return with Leon Balogun dropping to the bench.

There is a position up for grabs in the midfield. Connor Barron and Nico Raskin should continue in the engine room but will Clement preserve with the No.10 or look to set up in a way to bolster the midfield and prevent Aberdeen from dictating? It's unlikely the Belgian will deviate so it may be Mohamed Diomande or Tom Lawrence behind Cyriel Dessers. Lawrence would edge it given Diomande is someone struggling for form and he doesn't boast the physicality and dig that Lawrence will likely give.

Up front, despite starting against the Buddies, Hamza Igamane failed to grasp his opportunity. The Moroccan has qualities but isn't ready to start games so Dessers will no doubt lead the line. Rangers need him on his game though which is easier said than done at this moment.

(Image: RR)