Verdict: Hearts threat in for nightmare vs Rangers – here’s what McInnes could do

Few fixtures carry as much subplot as this one. Derek McInnes returns to Gorgie with Rangers on Wednesday night, facing the club he used to manage. The visitors arrive in strong shape, and Hearts’ main attacking threat could have a long, frustrating evening in front of goal. (Sky Sports)

The table tells part of the story. Rangers sit second on 20 points from nine games, while Hearts are third on 16. The form guide favours the visitors too: Rangers have won six of their last seven league games and are unbeaten in their last five away. Hearts are far from pushovers, though. They have won their last four home league matches and are among the division’s top scorers. That makes this a genuine contest rather than a one-sided one. (Hearts v Rangers Live Score, H2h & Match Info +2)

McInnes knows exactly how Hearts like to play, and that is his biggest weapon. Expect him to prioritise protecting the space in front of his back line, denying Hearts’ key attacker the service and room to turn. A compact midfield that squeezes the middle and forces play wide would suit Rangers, who can then trust their defenders to deal with the crosses. Hearts have not been prolific in this fixture lately, as they have failed to score three or more in any of the last seven head-to-heads. That suggests a cautious, disciplined Rangers display could be enough to blunt them again. (soccerway)

The other option is to take the game to Hearts. Rangers have the quality to press high and pin the hosts back, but doing so risks leaving gaps for counter-attacks, and Tynecastle will not forgive loose passes. McInnes will probably choose control over adventure.

Hearts will fancy their chances, particularly with the crowd behind them. Their last meeting, in May, ended in a 2-1 Hearts win. But if McInnes gets his tactical balance right, Hearts’ dangerman could end up with very little to show for it. My verdict is a tight, tense night that Rangers edge by a single goal