Rangers kick-off their group stage campaign tonight at Ibrox.
Rangers host Feyenoord tonight in the UEFA Europa League, hoping to get three points on the board and make a positive start towards qualification into the knockout rounds.
Steven Gerrard has noted this group, also consisting of Porto and Young Boys, is harder than the one they faced last season but has called on his players to show no fear heading into the run of six matches.
It’s set to be an emotional night at Ibrox after the sad passing of Fernando Ricksen and there would be no more fitting tribute to the former captain from Gerrard’s side than picking up a big result on the pitch.
With home advantage they’ll fancy their chances tonight.
Picking up maximum points on their own turf is crucial to their qualification chances. Costly draws against Villarreal and Spartak Moscow last year ultimately ensured they missed out on progression.
The Gers boss has a number of injury issues to contend with, most notably Ryan Kent, who had to be substituted off with a hamstring issue at the weekend. Elsewhere Ryan Jack is a doubt after missing recent Scotland and Rangers matches.
What kind of team will Gerrard go with then?
Allan McGregor is certain to start as the club’s number one goalkeeper. He has the ability to make match-winning saves.
One of the changes from the weekend could come in defence, with Croatian international the best option on the best flank instead of Andy Halliday.
There are question marks about the continuing partnership of Connor Goldson and Nikola Katic. With Filip Helander waiting in the wings, the time could be coming to give the Swedish international a run of games.
However, it’d be a big risk to make a major change in that position for a European clash so Gerrard is likely to go with his established pairing.
That leaves captain James Tavernier to take up his position on the right flank.
In midfield, it all depends on the fitness status of Jack. If the reliable midfielder is available he’ll likely come in, but right now it looks most likely to be a trio of Glen Kamara, Steven Davis and Joe Aribo.
That’s a group that knows how to work together both in defence and attack, but all three will need big performances to get the better of their talented opponents.
With Kent out, expect Scott Arfield to play an inside left role, with Sheyi Ojo providing a bit of width on the right.
That’ll all be in support of Alfredo Morelos, who will be looking to enhance his growing reputation with a strong group stage run of goals.
Netting eight during qualification, he’s the key man if the Gers are to win.
Your predicted lineup in full is:
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