Rangers face Rapid Vienna in the Europa League on Thursday night.
Willie Johnston has told The National that he believes Rangers youngster Glenn Middelton deserves a run of games in Steven Gerrard’s starting eleven, ahead of Thursday’s clash against Rapid Vienna.
Gerrard handed the 18-year-old his debut for Rangers this season, and has since made 10 appearances for the senior side – scoring a brace against Ayr in the Scottish League Cup semi-final and one against Dundee in the league.
Rangers currently have Ryan Kent, Daniel Candeias, Middleton and Eros Grezda to choose from on the flanks. Candeias is yet to show last season’s form, while Grezda is yet to start since his move from NK Osijek.
Rangers legend Johnston said that he believes former Norwich City youngster Middleton should be first choice for Gerrard above the likes of Kent, Candeias and Grezda.
“I would love to see Glenn Middleton get a run in the side because he is the type of player that makes things happen,” Johnston said. “Never mind passing the ball square, get it to young Glenn and he can get past the full-back and deliver a cross.
“I was only 17 when I came into the team so there is a bit of a similarity there and I hope he can get a run of games now.”
Rangers will be looking to put Sunday’s surprise 1-0 defeat to Livingston behind them as they welcome Rapid Vienna to Ibrox on Thursday night, in their second Group G clash in the Europa League.
Gerrard will be hoping his side can build on their 2-2 draw with La Liga side Villarreal, which saw the Light Blues come from behind on both occasions to steal a point in Spain.
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