Rangers’ title charge is quickly fading away after they once again dropped points in the Premiership last weekend. A good result in Europe though against Braga would bring the much-needed positivity and sense of pride in the side. The Bears will travel to the Braga Municipal Stadium this week after securing a 3-2 lead from the first leg.
The Bears might have won the previous encounter, but Braga showed that they have enough in their arsenal to hurt Rangers. Gerrard would be concerned with his side’s defensive showing in the past few weeks and the defenders will be tested big time in this tough away clash.
Team News: Alfredo Morelos was shown the yellow card in the first leg, which means he is suspended for this tie. Jermain Defoe is currently suffering from an injury, and he is going to be unavailable. Filip Helander is also going to miss out. Borna Barisic’s situation is touch and go, and it could go either way.
4-3-3 Rangers Predicted Lineup Vs Braga
Formation (4-3-3)
Defence
Allan McGregor will have a significant role to play in goal, and he is a no brainer to start again. James Tavernier is a nailed-on starter at right back. Connor Goldson is also likely to feature in defence. Nikola Katic has come under scrutiny for some of his performances, but Gerrard is unlikely to give the inexperienced George Edmundson a start in this big clash. Hence, the Croatian is likely to start.
We are expecting Borna Barisic to be fit in time for this encounter and he should start at left-back. If he isn’t available, then Andy Halliday is likely to feature.
Midfield
Steven Davis is expected to start in the deeper role in midfield. He will need to be at his best in the middle. Ryan Jack missed the last game due to suspension, but he should return to the lineup for this clash. His energy in the middle could be crucial in thwarting Braga’s attack. Scott Arfield is likely going to complete the midfield three.
Attack
Ryan Kent has been a major disappointment this season, and this is the kind of game where he needs to show his quality. His pace might trouble Braga on the counter-attack, and the Englishman could be really crucial in this tie. Ianis Hagi is one of the few positives for Rangers since the winter break, and he is expected to start on the right flank. He will be in a free-flowing role in the attacking third.
Florian Kamberi has looked sharp in his cameos, and he should get his first start for Rangers in this crucial encounter. The January arrival should lead the line.
