Philippe Clement has not yet been shown the door by the Rangers board despite a dreadful 1-1 draw against Dundee United. They are way behind Celtic and Aberdeen in the Premiership battle and a setback on Thursday night against Nice could jeopardize their knockout hopes in the Europa League. The under-fire Belgian must ensure a result at Allianz Riviera to avoid a dismissal in the next few days.
The Eaglets, on the other hand, are struggling in Europe with two draws and two defeats in four group phase encounters. Franck Haise’s men must secure a win to stay relevant in the playoff race, and the Gers, therefore, should uplift their game as they have done so far this campaign.
Predicted 4-2-3-1 Rangers Lineup To Face Nice
Defence
Jack Butland has revived his career since plying his trade to Ibrox. He will be tested between the sticks this midweek, and it remains to be seen how the veteran Englishman deals with the French side’s attacking prowess from the last line of defence.
Clement opted to rely on Dujon Sterling ahead of skipper James Tavernier against the Tangerines. He must restore the seasoned right fullback, as well as, prefer Ridvan Yilmaz on the left. The latter replaced Jefte midway through the second half and should prove his worth now after missing out on months of football due to persistent injury concerns. Leon Balogun deserves the nod in deep defence ahead of Robin Propper as the veteran Nigerian offers more balance and composure alongside John Souttar.
Midfield
Although the Light Blues are well-equipped in the centre of the pitch, Connor Barron has cemented a starting status in all competitions since completing a summer move from Aberdeen. Fit-again Nicolas Raskin is expected to keep his place and form a ‘double pivot’ alongside the young Scotsman deep down the midfield.
Neither Danillo nor Ianis Hagi has been registered in Rangers’ Europa League squad which leaves the manager with Mohamed Diomande as a makeshift ‘number 10’ amid Tom Lawrence’s injury absence. Vaclav Cerny and Nedim Bajrami have stepped in from the flanks and the wide-attacking pair must exhibit their flair and finesse week in, and week out. Ross McCausland could be involved as a second-half substitute.
Attack
Cyriel Dessers was back among goals before the international break, but his lack of work ethic and wastefulness high up the pitch have often frustrated the Rangers faithful. He was taken off at half-time on Saturday evening but the gaffer is tipped to bank on him yet again considering the lack of firepower upfront.
