It’s all grim at Rangers right now following a disastrous performance against ten-man Livingston on Saturday afternoon. Although an injury-time equalizer from John Lundstram salvaged a point in this Ibrox tie, things are going to get worse on Wednesday night when they would lock horns with high-flying Napoli at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona.
While the Gers are already eliminated from the Champions League, a 7-1 home defeat against Liverpool exposed the reality. They are far off their European opponents in terms of quality and the fans are fearing another thrashing, given the Serie A leaders’ exquisite scoring streak.
Napoli scored four against the Reds, ten versus Ajax over two legs, whereas the first-leg fixture ended 3-0 in their favour when they travelled to Ibrox in mid-September. Rangers, on the other hand, have been humiliated in all four group-stage games. Considering their current circumstances and conundrum under Giovanni van Bronckhorst, it looks highly unlikely for them to grab a result in the remaining contests.
Predicted 4-2-3-1 Rangers Lineup To Face Napoli
Defence
The Gers have no option but to rely on 40-year-old Allan McGregor between the sticks. His compatriot Jon McLaughlin proved underwhelming despite being handed the ‘number 1’ status initially. Meanwhile, the frustration is growing for talented Robby McCrorie who has not at all been utilized by the Dutch boss.
James Tavernier was dreadful against Livi, but the Light Blues do not have an able alternative down the right-hand side of their four-man backline. The skipper must concentrate on containing the sensational Khvicha Kvaratskhelia rather than making his usual marauding runs, and so is left fullback Borna Barisic who has to ensure defensive stability to avoid another humiliation. Leon King was taken off at half-time due to illness, but the manager expects him to be available for selection with Connor Goldson, John Souttar and Filip Helander sidelined through long-term injuries. Ben Davies must retain his place in the heart of the defence.
Midfield
Ryan Jack settled in as a double pivot alongside John Lundstram after a slow start. But the fresh fitness blow will keep him out for months. Glen Kamara is in contention to return to action after recovering from an ankle sprain and might get some minutes as a second-half substitute. Veteran Steven Davis is expected to grab another start alongside Lundstram.
Fashion Sakala deserves a nod down the right for his pace and flair. Also, a player of Ryan Kent’s quality is likely to operate from the left irrespective of his form. Scott Arfield should feature through the middle in a slightly advanced midfield slot. The likes of Malik Tillman and Scott Wright could get involved at a later stage of the tie.
Attack
Antonio Colak must spearhead the attack ahead of Alfredo Morelos and Kemar Roofe. Having said that, the Croatian hitman needs to be more active in the build-ups.
