Ahead of the weekend’s encounter with St Mirren, there was likely no doubt in Steven Gerrard’s mind as to who he would pick at left-back four days down the line, against Legia Warsaw.
Given the lack of form demonstrated by both Borna Barisic and Andy Halliday and the recent reliability of Jon Flanagan, the scouser was a shoo-in.
However, Barisic’s match-winning contribution against the Buddies has changed things somewhat. There are now two genuine contenders for a single starting spot.
Rangers boss Gerrard faces big call – who should he choose?
This is a huge week for the Gers with the crunch Legia clash falling just three days before the Old Firm. Therefore, while Gerrard will want to name as strong a side a possible for both matches, there’ll likely be a couple of alterations for the Celtic clash to freshen up the XI.
Given left-back is one berth where a player hasn’t nailed down their spot, it seems probable that Barisic will start one fixture and Flanagan the other.
If that is the case, Gerrard should pluck for the Croatian against Legia. The situation of the tie suits that selection.
Flanagan is a solid, no-nonsense defender. He tackles hard and sticks to his job. Yet, however reliable he may be at the back, he doesn’t offer much going forward. He has just a solitary assist to his name in Gers colours [Transfermarkt], compared to Barisic’s nine [Transfermarkt].
Rangers head into Thursday night’s tie knowing they need to score at least once to make it through.
It isn’t a case where containment is the priority and nicking a goal a bonus. While there’s no need for recklessness, the Gers would be best served by forcing the issue if they want to progress.
(Photo by Maria Jose Segovia/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Therefore, Barisic, a natural left-footer who possesses more pace, creativity and better crossing ability, should get the nod.
If Flanagan plays, Rangers will only provide a double threat down the right, where James Tavernier will overlap his winger. Selecting Barisic gives Gerrard an outlet on both flanks against a defensive-minded opposition.
He’s not bad at those free-kicks either…
