After a disappointing domestic defeat against Kilmarnock, Rangers will host FC Steaua București on Thursday night for a crucial UEFA Europa League encounter. They defeated Malmo on Matchday 1 but sustained a 4-1 setback against Lyon in the previous fixture. Philippe Clement’s men underperformed on Sunday afternoon, yet they must step up the game and script all three points versus the Romanians to stay relevant in the knockout race.
It won’t be a stroll in the park for the Glasgow giants considering their opponents’ stellar form in all competitions. They grabbed successive European wins against RFS and PAOK, as the latter were defeated in their backyard despite numerical supremacy for most of the second half. Meanwhile, they had some flight issues before their travel and the delayed arrival might help the Gers take advantage of the situation.
Predicted 4-2-3-1 Rangers Lineup To Face FC Steaua București
Defence
Apart from a few blips, Jack Butland has largely impressed between the sticks and should retain his ‘number 1’ status this midweek.
Skipper James Tavernier must continue as the right fullback. However, shifting him to an advanced role late in the outing did not work out at Rugby Park. Having struggled against the physicality of Killie forward Kyle Vassell, Robin Propper should prepare himself for another tricky test while facing Daniel Birligea who has been labelled as the Romanian Luis Suarez by the FCSB owner Cica Becali. John Souttar has exhibited his strength and resilience in deep defence. Also, the Brazilian left fullback Jefte has grabbed his chances amid Ridvan Yilmaz’s injury absence.
Midfield
Connor Barron has made his presence known deep down the midfield. Clement has relied on the young Scotsman week in, and week out, but it remains to be seen whether the gaffer opts for Mohamed Diomande as his central midfield partner. The Ivorian should get a run of games ahead of Nicolas Raskin, Kieran Dowell and Dujon Sterling.
Vaclav Cerny has cemented his place on the right. But the manager must deploy Nedim Bajrami as a ‘number 10’ to utilize his creative spark. Tom Lawrence could make way for Ross McCausland who would be a better outlet from the left-hand flank. Injuries to Rabbi Matondo, Danilo and Oscar Cortes have left Clement with limited attacking options despite a busy summer.
Cyriel Dessers has been criticized at times for his lack of all-round traits. But his poaching attributes make him an assured starter for the ‘number 9’ spot. Hamza Igamane could be introduced as a second-half substitute to inject pace and prowess high up the pitch.
