Rangers claimed a commanding 3-0 win against Dundee over the weekend and set up a clash with Motherwell in the League Cup semifinal. But they have a tricky trip to Sweden this midweek when Philippe Clement’s men would kickstart their Europa League campaign by locking horns with Malmo FF.
Their most recent meetings occurred in the Champions League qualification round three years back. The Light Blues sustained 2-1 defeats in both legs, also, they could not pass the Malmo test back in 2011 having suffered a 2-1 defeat on aggregate. Rangers are looking for their first-ever competitive victory against Malmo, but they must uplift their game given the Swedish side’s blistering run of form in Allsvenskan.
Predicted 4-2-3-1 Rangers Lineup To Face Malmo
Defence
Despite roping in Liam Kelly on a Bosman, Jack Butland has been the Gers ‘number 1’ in all competitions. The Englishman must be at his best to avoid another setback after several disappointing outcomes so far this campaign.
Skipper James Tavernier should balance his game between defence and attack while operating from the right. John Souttar and Robin Propper have been resilient in recent outings and the gaffer is expected to rely on them once more in the heart of the backline. Ridvan Yilmaz’s injury and Jefte’s suspension might see Dujon Sterling feature as a makeshift left fullback at Eleda Stadion. Leon Balogun and Neraysho Kasanwirjo would be there as the defensive covers.
Midfield
Connor Barron has been a regular in Rangers midfield since his summer move from Aberdeen. The young Scotsman should keep his place and form a ‘double pivot’ alongside Mohamed Diomande deep down the midfield. Kieran Dowell and Nicolas Raskin could be involved as second-half substitutes.
A hamstring injury has ruled Rabbi Matondo out for months, but the deadline-day arrival of Nedim Bajrami has restored parity down the left. The Albanian is likely to retain his starting status and the other summer recruit Vaclav Cerny should get the nod over Oscar Cortes and Ross McCausland from the opposite flank. Tom Lawrence must exhibit his creative spark as a ‘number 10’ with no other like-for-like alternative available for selection.
Attack
Danilo is sidelined for weeks due to a knee strain. However, Hamza Igamane could be an option as the understudy to Cyriel Dessers high up the pitch. The Nigerian hitman is enjoying a scintillating run with 7 goals and 3 assists in 9 games across competitions, and his presence in the attacking third might trouble the hosts on Thursday night.
