Predicted Rangers XI as Danny Röhl Shows True Colours and Bojan Miovski in Mix for Salvation Rather Than a Snub
Rangers manager Danny Röhl is beginning to show his tactical identity at Ibrox, with fans starting to witness the German’s trademark intensity and versatility come to life. The former Southampton and Germany assistant coach has steadied the ship after a difficult start, and now, all eyes turn to the crucial Premier Sports Cup semi-final against Celtic — led by Martin O’Neill, who has stepped in following Brendan Rodgers’ unexpected departure.
The 3-4-1-2 formation that Röhl has implemented has delivered back-to-back victories over Kilmarnock and Hibernian, but he knows those results will count for little if Rangers cannot overcome their Old Firm rivals at Hampden. This is where tactical precision and mental strength will be vital.
With Connor Barron serving a suspension, Mohamed Diomande is expected to return to midfield alongside Nico Raskin, forming a dynamic engine room designed to control the game’s tempo. Diomande’s energy and forward drive complement Raskin’s combative presence, giving Röhl a well-balanced midfield partnership that can both defend and transition efficiently.
At the back, the question revolves around how Röhl uses James Tavernier. The Rangers captain has been ever-reliable as a marauding right-back, but Röhl’s flexible 3-4-1-2 system could see him drift into a hybrid role — either as a right-sided centre-back or wing-back — depending on how Celtic approach the game. John Souttar and Ben Davies are likely to complete the back three, providing stability and experience in the defensive line.
In goal, Jack Butland remains the undisputed first choice, with his leadership and shot-stopping ability proving vital in recent matches.
Further upfield, Djeidi Gassama has quickly become a fan favourite since Röhl’s arrival, thanks to his pace and fearlessness on the flank. However, the tactical structure may not favour traditional wingers, meaning Gassama and Oliver Antman could be used as impact substitutes rather than starters. Röhl is known for preferring narrow attacking lines, and this setup benefits creative midfielders such as Mikey Moore and Thelo Aasgaard, who are battling for a starting berth in the playmaker role behind the front two.
In attack, Danilo has rediscovered his scoring touch under the new boss, showing renewed sharpness and confidence. Alongside him, Youssef Chermiti offers physical presence and aerial prowess, giving Rangers multiple ways to threaten Celtic’s defence. Yet, the most intriguing subplot is the inclusion of Bojan Miovski. The former Aberdeen striker might not start, but his intelligence and timing could make him the ultimate super-sub — a weapon Röhl could deploy in the latter stages when the match opens up.
This Rangers side under Danny Röhl appears balanced, disciplined, and quietly confident. The manager’s insistence on substance over style has resonated with fans, and his early success has injected belief that the blue half of Glasgow can reclaim domestic dominance.
The test against Celtic at Hampden will be defining. Should Röhl’s tactical mastery deliver victory, Rangers supporters will know for certain that a new era — one built on adaptability, intensity, and intelligence — has truly begun at Ibrox.
