On Thursday, Rangers take on Young Boys in their second Europa League Group G clash.
Steven Gerrard’s side made a great start to the competition by defeating Feyenoord 1-0 at Ibrox. In fact, the Gers are on an excellent run of form at the minute, having won four times in ten days without conceding a goal.
This trip to Bern constitutes something of a step up, though.
Their opponents are currently second in the Swiss Super League and while they are in the midst of an injury crisis [Scottish Sun], they still have in-form players like Jean-Pierre Nsamé, who will pose a significant threat.
Following the 5-0 win over Aberdeen at the weekend, Gerrard has an unexpected selection headache. Greg Stewart put in a excellent shift, scoring his first Gers goal and thriving in forward areas. The manager admitted that the display had given him ‘something to think about’ [Scottish Sun].
However, solidity rather than attacking flair will be the priority for this game. Therefore, we expect Glen Kamara to return in a holding midfield role. A start for the Finland international alongside Ryan Jack and Steven Davis would see Scott Arfield push forward to resume his more advanced position.
Elsewhere, given the standard of Saturday’s display, the team almost picks itself.
Some may make a case for Filip Helander replacing Nikola Katic at centre-back based on the Swede’s display against Feyenoord on matchday one.
Yet, it would seem contrived to change it after Katic fared well at the weekend. Besides, Young Boys play on an artificial surface, and Helander looked decidedly uncomfortable on a similar pitch at Livingston in midweek.
On the wing, with Ryan Kent and Jordan Jones still out injured, Sheyi Ojo is likely to keep his place ahead of Brandon Barker. Alfredo Morelos will lead the line after another goal at the weekend.
Young Boys vs Rangers (A) 03/10/2019 – Predicted XI
GK – Allan McGregor
RB – James Tavernier
CB – Nikola Katic
CB – Connor Goldson
LB – Borna Barisic
CDM – Glen Kamara
CM – Ryan Jack
CM – Steven Davis
RF – Sheyi Ojo
LF – Scott Arfield
ST – Alfredo Morelos