Rangers have it all to play for against Real Betis tonight, a scenario born out of the frustrating home result against Aris Limassol.
Just one point from two games against the Cypriots including the draw at Ibrox on matchday five of the Europa League means that Gers boss Philippe Clement doesn’t have the luxury of being able to rotate his squad.
It is all in our hands though and Rangers could even get away with losing if Sparta Prague don’t better our result against Real Betis, but who has the manager picked to get the job done?
Rangers v Real Betis starting XI confirmed
The team, almost, picks itself.
Ridvan Yilmaz and Leon Balogun aren’t eligible and there are no injury issues in defence, Ben Davies winning the battle with John Souttar, coming in to partner Connor Goldson.
Midfield is even easier.
There are only two fully fit and available options, managers tend not to give too much away in press conferences but even Philippe Clement had to laugh when asked if Jose Cifuentes was probably going to play.
He doesn’t have much choice.
Where the game could be won and lost is in Rangers forward line, Real Betis are a very good side, especially at home, and it might be that we only get one or two good chances.
We have to take them.
With no Danilo and Kemar Roofe not yet 100%, Cyriel Dessers gets the chance to continue his improved form but it is behind him where it gets difficult.
Todd Cantwell is missing for personal reasons and Tom Lawrence is out long term so Sam Lammers returns to a role that he has yet to make any real impact in – this is his chance to impress and prove that he does have a future at the club.
For once, on the wings, take any two of the three available and most fans would be happy but this is who the boss has gone with.
Rangers aren’t expected to win tonight due to the quality of Real Betis but Philppe Clement will be looking for the sort of performance that will stand him and his team in good stead for the rounds to come, whatever tournament they are in.
