Predicted Rangers line-up to face Maribor in the Europa League qualifier
After earning the first Scottish Premiership win of the season against St. Mirren, Steven Gerrard’s Rangers travel to Slovenia to face Maribor in the second leg of the Europa League qualifiers on Wednesday.
Rangers head into the second leg with a 3-1 advantage but cannot take Maribor lightly as the Slovenian outfit thrashed Gorica 5-0 at the weekend.
Should Rangers survive on Thursday, they will face either Russian side FC Ufa or Progres Niederkorn in the next round of the Europa League qualifiers.
Team News
Skipper James Tavernier and midfielder Scott Arfield were rested against St. Mirren, meaning the duo could come straight into the starting XI on Thursday.
Lassana Coulibaly is a doubt after being forced off on Sunday. Ryan Jack, who was given a rest following a head injury, could return to the squad.
The likes of Lee Wallace, Jordan Rossiter and Graham Dorrans all sidelined.
Probable Rangers XI
Formation: 4-1-4-1
Manager: Steven Gerrard
Allan McGregor (GK)
McGregor is a calmer presence in goal than Wes Foderingham. He should start against Maribor.
James Tavernier (RB)
Tavernier has enjoyed a fantastic start to the new season, with a couple of goals already to his name. After a much-needed rest, he should be restored in the line-up.
Connor Goldson (CB)
Goldson probably had his best game in a Rangers shirt against St. Mirren. He was comfortable in defence and begged a goal at the other end too.
Nikola Katic (CB)
Katic has proven to be the signing of the summer for Rangers. He is a sure starter on Thursday.
Jon Flanagan (LB)
With Borna Barisic cup-tied, Flanagan should take his role at left-back.
Ross McCrorie (CDM)
McCrorie was sent off against St. Mirren but is available to face Maribor in the Europa League.
Scott Arfield (RCM)
Coulibaly might not be risked after being forced off in injury time on Sunday. Arfield, who was given a rest, should take Coulibaly’s place in the midfield. A tireless worker, Arfield’s presence in the team could give the Gers a different dimension in the final third.
Ovie Ejaria (LCM)
Ejaria is a fine young player capable of keeping hold of the ball and working very diligently. He needs to bring consistency to his game in order to become a regular starter for Gerrard.
Ryan Kent (RM)
Kent’s determination, intensity and pace often lead to him getting into promising positions but his final ball lacks the cutting edge. Along with the final ball, he needs to improve his decision-making to a certain extent.
Read more: Rangers fans must be excited about the prospect of watching this 25-year-old play for Gerrard – here’s why
Jamie Murphy (LM)
Murphy has had a frustrating new season till date, often guilty of conceding possession and lacking the penetration with his deliveries from the left. He needs to get back his mojo as quickly as possible.
Alfredo Morelos (ST)
Rangers’ man of the moment, Morelos had an excellent game against St. Mirren. If he can stay fit and healthy and also keep his temperament in check, Morelos could become a top centre-forward in a few years.