It’s been a massive turnaround for Rangers since the appointment of Philippe Clement as the new Ibrox boss. They have made it to the League Cup final defeating Hearts at Hampden Park and the upbeat Gers must maintain the streak on Thursday night against Sparta Prague in the Europa League group stage encounter.
The fixture in Czechia finished in a stalemate and the Light Blues, therefore, must make the most of the home advantage for a place in the knockouts. The intent is back in the camp after a dire run under Michael Beale, also, the injury return of an array of key individuals has bolstered them across the pitch.
Predicted 4-2-3-1 Rangers Lineup To Face Sparta Prague
Defence
Jack Butland remains the ‘number 1′ choice across competitions. The English custodian must aim for back-to-back cleansheets against Iron Sparta following a commanding display in the reverse fixture.
Despite netting 10 goals and assisting 3 times, Skipper James Tavernier is yet to fire in the Europa League. Clement prefers an attacking brand of football, but the Gers’ right fullback should balance his game to avoid frailties in the defensive third. With John Souttar being an injury doubt, Connor Goldson is expected to partner with Ben Davies in the heart of the backline. Borna Barisic should feature from the left having missed their trip to Czechia with a knock. The likes of Leon King and Dujon Sterling could be involved as the understudy to their first-team stars.
Midfield
The midweek tie would be too soon for Nicolas Raskin who was in blistering form before sustaining an ankle injury against Hearts a couple of weeks ago. Ryan Jack is likely to operate as the ‘double pivot’ alongside John Lundstram, whereas Jose Cifuentes should wait for his opportunities after losing his starting status under the Belgian boss.
In spite of a difficult start to life in new surroundings, Sam Lammers has done his best to attune to various attacking roles. The Dutch attacking ace is tipped to retain his ‘number 10’ spot but, at the same time, could switch his position with Todd Cantwell who has mostly been deployed from the right-hand flank. Abdallah Sima has been a revelation down the left as his flair and finesse have been instrumental in terms of hitting the target. Rabbi Matondo and Kemar Roofe remain sidelined with their respective fitness concerns, but the gaffer has options in Tom Lawrence and Scott Wright to inject more firepower as ‘super subs’.
Attack
In-form Danilo should spearhead the attack over Cyriel Dessers, thanks to his majestic run of form since recovering from a fractured cheekbone.
