Livingston halted Rangers’ good run in all competitions, and Steven Gerrard’s men would look to get things right when they host Austrian outfit Rapid Wien at Ibrox in the Europa League clash. The loss against Livingston should come as a timely reminder, and the Gers faithful would hope for a much-improved performance midweek.
Steven Gerrard has been able to inspire his side especially in the European competitions, and one can expect the atmosphere at Ibrox to be electric when they host their first European Cup game after a gap of 8 years. The Austrian outfit won their first game against Spartak Moscow, and they would be in good spirits when they travel to Glasgow.
Team News
Alfredo Morelos would be available for selection after he missed the opening game against Villarreal due to suspension. Ryan Jack is still out with a muscle issue. Jamie Murphy continues to be a long-term absentee. Gareth McAuley’s fitness situation is not yet clear, but even if he is fit, the veteran defender is likely to be only on the bench.
Rangers’ Predicted Lineup Vs Rapid Wien
Formation (4-2-3-1)
Defence
Allan McGregor has been the key player in goal and Gerrard would once again expect a big performance from his goalkeeper. A poor outing against Livingston should cost Joe Worrall his place and Nikola Katic and Connor Goldson should be the centre back pairing for this crucial clash. The Croatian centre-back would be feeling hard done by having lost his place to Worrall off late.
Borna Barisic has recovered from his hamstring problem and played the weekend’s game. The left-back was crucial against Villarreal as he set up a goal down the left flank and the gaffer would once again expect a big performance from him. On the right, same would be expected out of club captain James Tavernier though he needs to tighten up defensively.
Midfield
Keeping a clean sheet should be the priority. Therefore, we believe Gerrard is probably going to opt for a double pivot in midfield. Lassana Coulibaly and Andy Halliday should start in that role in central midfield. Coulibaly has struggled to get back to his best after coming back from injury and Gerrard would hope that the Malian can put in a big performance in this game.
Ryan Kent has slowly grown into his role and is currently one of the most critical players in this side. He should start down the left flank. It can be a toss-up between Ovie Ejaria and Scott Arfield for the no.10 role and Gerrard might opt for the more experienced Arfield for this game. Down the right, the gaffer has options of Daniel Candeias and Eros Grezda who are outright wingers, but Kyle Lafferty could be preferred over them as Gerrard would want to find a way to get him into the team.
Attack
Alfredo Morelos will lead the line, and Gerrard would hope that his striker can curb his frustration when things don’t go his way as the Colombian turns out to be a liability in that case.
