Preview: Hearts vs. Rangers - prediction, team news, lineups

Although just one place separates these two teams in the Scottish Premiership standings, Hearts trail the visitors by 16 points.

Match preview

All things considered, it would take a minor miracle for Rangers to get back into the title race at this stage with Celtic looking unbeatable at present.

Nevertheless, the work being undertaken by recently-appointed boss Michael Beale is with the short and long term in mind, and beginning with a 10-match unbeaten streak is an impressive feat.

On Saturday, Rangers kept their fifth clean sheet under Beale, the Glasgow giants running out 2-0 victors over a St Johnstone side who were reduced to 10 men before half time.

For the second game running, none of Rangers' attacking players got on the scoresheet, but Beale would have been satisfied with the result as the club continue to build momentum.

Aside from the Old Firm derby on January 2, their upcoming trip to Edinburgh represents the most difficult fixture of Beale's reign, and one which will not be taken lightly.

Since returning from the World Cup break, Hearts have managed to put together a nine-match undefeated run, one which has included six wins.

While there was disappointment with only drawing 0-0 at Livingston on Sunday, Robbie Neilson's team kept a clean sheet for the fourth game in succession.

As a result, Hearts retained their seven-point lead in the race for third spot, their main objective in the league given Rangers' 16-point lead in second.

On the two occasions that these sides have met in the top flight in 2022-23, Rangers have emerged victorious, most notably at Tynecastle in October when they won by a 4-0 scoreline.

Hearts Scottish Premiership form:

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Hearts form (all competitions):

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Rangers Scottish Premiership form:

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Rangers form (all competitions):

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Team News

With Cameron Devlin being withdrawn during the first half against Livingston, Jorge Grant is expected to take his spot in midfield.

However, Robert Snodgrass is also in contention, while Josh Ginnelly or Garang Kuol are likely to replace Yutaro Oda down the middle of the attack.

Beale may opt to stick with the same Rangers XI from the win over St Johnstone, although he does have plenty of alternatives available to him.

John Lundstram and Antonio Colak are options in central midfield and attack, but Todd Cantwell may retain his spot on the right flank.

Having only made his return from a long-term injury at the weekend, Ianis Hagi will not be considered for a start.

Hearts possible starting lineup:

Clark; Sibbick, Rowles, Kingsley; Atkinson, Kiomourtzoglou, Grant, Cochrane; Shankland, Humphrys; Ginnelly

Rangers possible starting lineup:

McGregor; Tavernier, Goldson, Davies, Barisic; Kamara, Jack; Cantwell, Tillman, Kent; Morelos

We say: Hearts 1-2 Rangers

With both teams in excellent form, this has the makings of being a closer fixture than some people may be anticipating. Nevertheless, draws are not beneficial to Rangers, and we feel that a late push may see them earn a dramatic victory at Tynecastle.

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