Despite another underwhelming display, Rangers showed resilience on Sunday afternoon and scripted a comeback against Motherwell in the League Cup semi-final. While they would face Celtic at Hampden Park in their bid to defend the crown, the focus now shifts on Thursday night as the Light Blues set to travel to Greece to lock horns with Olympiacos in the Europa League group phase encounter.
Both teams started identically, with 2 wins and 1 defeat in their three previous outings. While the Gers are only ahead on goal difference, a setback at Karaiskakis could jeopardize their playoff hopes. However, they have punched above their weight in European football, and a lion-hearted performance could earn them all three points given the Greek giants’ mixed run of results so far this season.
Predicted 4-2-3-1 Rangers Lineup To Face Olympiacos
Defence
Jack Butland has been one of the bright sparks in an otherwise disappointing campaign. He must keep his place between the sticks and exhibit his expertise against the in-form Ayoub El Kaabi.
Skipper James Tavernier has worked towards improving his defensive game but, at the same time, is lacking contribution high up the pitch. He must maintain a balance between defence and attack, and so is Jefte, who has excelled with time as a left fullback. Robin Propper seems to have slipped down the pecking order behind John Souttar, Leon Balogun and Neraysho Kasanwirjo. Souttar and Balogun might continue as the preferred central defensive pairing for their ability to play a high line and ball-playing traits from the heart of the backline.
Midfield
Summer recruit Connor Barron has cemented a starting status deep down the midfield. He has also earned a call-up in the national camp for the November fixtures, but the young Scotsman must keep up his good work in Rangers colours. Nicolas Raskin has been reintegrated into the starting XI, as the gaffer Philippe Clement is looking for stability in the middle of the park. Barron and Raskin are expected to form a ‘double pivot’ ahead of Dujon Sterling and Kieran Dowell.
Tom Lawrence was forced to leave the pitch early against Motherwell with a fitness concern. Mohamed Diomande could slot in as an advanced playmaker if the Welshman fails to recover before the midweek trip. Vaclav Cerny and Nedim Bajrami combined for the winner versus the Steelmen, and the duo must depict their flair and finesse once again down the flanks. Ross McCausland might get introduced as a second-half substitute amid Oscar Cortes’ injury absence.
Attack
Cyriel Dessers ended his barren run by finding the equalizer on the weekend. The Nigerian should keep his place high up the pitch and showcase his poaching skills in Piraeus.
