Despite a dreadful domestic form, Rangers have been a formidable force in the Europa League. A 3-1 win on the road against Fenerbahce has put them in the driver’s seat ahead of hosting the Turkish giants on Thursday night in the return leg of the Round of 16. They must make the two-goal advantage count and secure a result at Ibrox to progress to the quarterfinals of this prestigious competition.
Both Fener and the Gers had a rare weekend off before the upcoming face-off. While Rangers are way behind their bitter rivals Celtic in the Premiership standings, the Yellow Canaries also trail Galatasaray in the Super Lig race. The setback in Europe could be a double whammy for Jose Mourinho, their charismatic Portuguese boss, who has yet to exhibit his tactical supremacy in Istanbul.
Predicted 3-4-2-1 Rangers Lineup To Face Fenerbahce
Defence
Jack Butland has been inconsistent between the sticks but pulled off some excellent saves last midweek. The Englishman must deliver another goalkeeping masterclass to ensure a result in Rangers’ favour.
Skipper James Tavernier, known for his marauding runs and attacking expertise as a right fullback, is now a part of Ferguson’s ‘back three’ alongside John Souttar and Robin Propper. A collision with Butland forced the latter to leave the pitch early with a concussion, but the Dutchman should be declared fit for the Ibrox encounter. Veteran Leon Balogun and the young ace Clinton Nsiala must make it among the substitutes as the understudy to first-team centre-backs.
Midfield
Predominantly a left-back, Ridvan Yilmaz has slotted in well on the right and is now expected to feature again as a wingback. Jefte’s discipline in defence and aggression in attack should be utilized from the left. Versatile Dujon Sterling could be introduced as a second-half substitute to inject pace, power and energy down the wide.
Connor Barron’s injury return has been a massive boost in the centre of the pitch. The young Scotsman must orchestrate the tempo with his work rate and technicality. The presence of Nicolas Raskin should help him settle in deep down the midfield. Mohamed Diomande has impressed as an attacking playmaker, and so has Vaclav Cerny, who fired in a brace in Turkey to secure a two-goal cushion. Ianis Hagi, Nedim Bajrami and Tom Lawrence could be introduced as alternatives to slot in and around the attacking third.
Attack
Cyriel Dessers broke the deadlock in Istanbul early into the game and the in-form Nigerian should spearhead the attack ahead of Danilo and Hamza Igamane.
