Rangers fans have reacted on Twitter after the Gers starting XI was confirmed for their first-leg Europa League Round of 32 clash against Royal Antwerp at the Bosuilstadion [Rangers FC Twitter].
It’s a first European assignment in over two months for Steven Gerrard’s side, but they have passed all others this season with flying colours.
Rangers sailed through three rounds of qualifying and then went unbeaten to top Group D ahead of Benfica.
Now, a two-leg knockout tie awaits against Group J runners-up, Antwerp, who are currently occupying second spot in the Belgian Pro League.
Antwerp have the benefit of home advantage for the first leg but that is diminished somewhat by the absence of fans and the hosts are also without several key players due to suspensions and injuries.
The Gers’ build-up has been dominated by controversy surrounding breaches of Covid regulations but while the manager is now short on cover in one key area, he still had a strong group to pick from.
Allan McGregor continues in goal, while there is one change to the back four from the weekend win over Kilmarnock, with Filip Helander coming in to join James Tavernier, Connor Goldson and Borna Barisic, at the expense of Leon Balogun.
In midfield, Steven Davis retains his place but Joe Aribo moves forward and Ryan Jack drops to the bench, with Scott Arfield and Glen Kamara returning to the XI.
The manager was spoilt for choice in the final third with all his main men back available and he has opted to go with Joe Aribo, Kemar Roofe, Alfredo Morelos as his starting front three, with Ryan Kent, Cedric Itten and Ianis Hagi all dropping to the bench.
Will this team be strong enough to secure all three points?
Most supporters are shocked that the manager made so many changes, with the absences of weekend match-winner Ryan Jack and the near ever-present Ryan Kent particularly surprising.
Here’s a selection of reactions from supporters:
Ahead of kick-off, check out our Preview Video over on the Rangers News YouTube channel.
