Rangers take on FC Midtjylland on Thursday evening in the Europa League third qualifying round.
Having defeated both St Joseph’s and Progres Niederkorn to get to this stage, things now crank up a notch. Rangers Reserves coach Peter Lovenkrands has already warned that the Danes will provide stiff opposition [Rangers.co.uk].
Midtjylland have won the first four games of their Danish Superliga season. (Photo by Lars Ronbog / FrontZoneSport via Getty Images)
To that end, Rangers must be defensively sound, without overlooking the importance of grabbing an away goal or two. The manager’s team selection is likely to reflect those aims.
Therefore, we’re predicting three changes from the side that defeated Kilmarnock on Sunday.
Gerrard to tweak things for Denmark trip
Firstly, Allan McGregor will come in for Wes Foderingham between the sticks. The latter didn’t do anything wrong at Rugby Park, but when available, the former is the undisputed number one.
McGregor excelled in Europe last season. (Photo by Epsilon/Getty Images)
Finally, given the importance of defensive solidity, we expect Glen Kamara to return to his defensive midfield role. He provides a great buffer for the back four, and could come in at the expense of Joe Aribo. That would mean a return to the trio which worked so well late last season with the Finn accompanying Steven Davis and Ryan Jack.
If the Gers get through the first hour unscathed but are in need of a goal, then Aribo may be introduced from the bench.