Predicted Rangers line-up to face Rapid Wien in the Europa League
European football is back at Ibrox for the first time since 2011 as Rangers host Rapid Vienna on Thursday.
Steven Gerrard will be hoping that Rangers can follow up their Europa League draw against Villarreal with a home win against Rapid Vienna.
Gerrard will expect a reaction from his boys following the disappointing 1-0 defeat at Livingston on Sunday. Regardless of suffering a loss this past weekend, Rangers will be buoyant ahead of facing Rapid Vienna, who have sacked manager Goran Djuricin following a third straight league defeat.
Team News
Alfredo Morelos and Jon Flanagan will return from their one-game suspensions, but Ryan Jack will miss the game with a calf injury. New boy Gareth McAuley is also unavailable for the clash. Jamie Murphy is ruled out for the season with cruciate ligament damage.
Probable Rangers XI
Formation: 4-3-3
Manager: Steven Gerrard
Allan McGregor (GK)
Gerrard is almost certain to stick with Allan McGregor in goal, having nailed down the starting spot after his arrival this summer.
James Tavernier (RB)
Captain James Tavernier will keep his place at right-back. He has to be defensively solid to snuff out any danger on his flank.
Connor Goldson (CB)
Goldson has been rock solid in defence for the Gers and will once again look to keep things tight at the back. He is a sure starter for the game on Thursday.
Nikola Katic (CB)
Katic is proving to be the signing of the summer for Gerrard. He has been a pillar at the back for Rangers and will look to continue his excellent form against Rapid Wien.
Borna Barisic (LB)
Barisic is a powerful left-back who loves to maraud forward with the ball and attack with purpose.
Andy Halliday (CDM)
Andy Halliday may be the best option in holding midfield. He can perform that task efficiently against the Austrian opponents.
Lassana Coulibaly (RCM)
Coulibaly has been poor in the last few outings, and he needs to step up. He is a strong midfielder who will offer physicality and power to Rangers’ midfield.
Ovie Ejaria (LCM)
Ejaria should start as a part of the midfield trio. He will look to dictate the tempo of the game from the middle of the park.
Scott Arfield (RW)
Starting on the right could be Arfield, who has become an indispensable player for Gerrard and co.
Ryan Kent (LW)
Kent should start out wide as he can trouble the Rapid Wien defenders with his explosive pace and directness on the ball.
Read more: A huge boost – This 23-year-old Rangers summer signing could be a key man for Gerrard this season
Kyle Lafferty (ST)
Lafferty could be a real handful for the Rapid Wien defenders on Thursday. The big northern Irishman is expected to lead Rangers’ attack in the midweek.