It’s a return to the Scottish Cup on Saturday lunchtime for the Rangers fans in the Transfer Tavern, who saw their side dramatically beaten by rivals Hibernian in the final last season. 

So the Gers propping up the bar will be looking to go one better this term, though do face a difficult tie at home to Motherwell as they return to domestic action for the first time since the defeat to Celtic on New Year’s Eve.

While Mark Warburton’s side have already beaten the Steelmen this season amid the latter’s struggles in the league, cup competition is a different kettle of fish and the hosts should expect a tough encounter at Ibrox indeed.

As tricky a test as this is, there’s been some good news on the injury front with skipper Lee Wallace likely to be fit for the game on Saturday.

So, with that all this in mind, here’s the 4-3-3 formation XI Warburton should field to beat Motherwell in the Scottish Cup.

GK: Wes Foderingham

Still remains shaky from corners, as was evident during David Gray’s winner in the final last year, though seems to Warburton’s stalwart between the sticks.

RB: James Tavernier

With the attacking intent on Rangers due to the fact they enter the game as heavy favourites, Warburton should turn to Tavernier to bomb forward and provide an extra body.

CB: Rob Kiernan

Is quickly becoming the lynchpin of this Gers defence and is a palpable goal threat from set-pieces, meaning his presence in the backline is beyond crucial.

CB: Clint Hill

Eyebrows were raised upon his arrival in the summer and, while he’s largely operated at left-back during his career, the 38-year-old veteran can bring a calm experience to the rearguard.

LB: Lee Wallace

The Gers’ skipper return from injury will be a huge plus for Warburton in his attempts to progress into the next round of the Scottish Cup. Crucial in both an attacking, defensive and leadership sense.

CDM: Andy Halliday

While not the most disciplined of defensive midfielders, the Gers’ midfield stalwart will be well up for cup and a formidable presence in the engine room.

CM: Jason Holt

Along with the aforementioned Halliday, Jason Holt forms an energetic and mobile pairing in midfield, getting all over the park and distributing the ball quickly into the more talented forwards when given the chance.

CM: Josh Windass

The most creative of the three in midfield, the 22-year-old will be tasked with finding that killer ball when Motherwell sit back and attempt to hit Rangers on the break.

RW: Emerson Hyndman

Signed over the course of the January window, American youngster Emerson Hyndman is likely to cause huge excitement amongst the Ibrox faithful when he gets on the ball. Hopefully for them, the 20-year-old can provide some much-needed creativity.

Kenny Miller

While the injury to Joe Garner is thankfully a lot less serious than originally thought, Kenny Miller will surely lead the line as he looks to add to his two Scottish Cups.

Barrie McKay

Should relish playing with Windass behind him as he looks to push forward and cut inside, floating behind the central striker Miller. A wonderful talent to watch in full flow, the 22-year-old should be a big player for years to come.