It feels like Rangers v Villarreal has been an age in coming. But there’s only one more sleep until the big kick off.
In what is Rangers biggest European night for a decade, we must win to keep the fate of Group G in our hands.
And win I truly believe we can. Villarreal have stumbled, ambled and trembled their way through this season.
Unconvincingly unconvincing in almost every department, they are a slow, turgid outfit at times. Despite winning 2-1 against Betis at the weekend, they’re in poor form. It was their first win in six overall, and their first win La Liga home win full stop all season.
The might struggle to deal with the intensity of Ibrox.
But they still have quality players and can hurt us. Cazorla, Bacca and Moreno are all for the watching.
It might sound mental given where we were last May, but I believe we can win tomorrow.
Fans all important in Govan tomorrow
The fans have a massive role to play. All 50,000 of them. These players are beginning to enjoy the big nights at Ibrox. The more experience they get of them, the more comfortable they get playing in them.
And that’s whilst new opposition has to learn how to contend with it.
From the first screeching blow to the last, let’s make sure the Spaniards know they’re in for a tough one.
On the field, Rangers are still held back by one injury in particular. Whilst missing Ryan Kent is a blow, having no Borna Barisic/recognised left back continues to hamper. Not that Andy Halliday hasn’t been a solid deputy.
There’s a big decision in that position. Heart says Halliday, head says Flanagan. I think Gerrard will go with the latter. Not that I necessarily agree with it. Flanagan has been the preferred defensive option in big games.
I then expect Worrall to come in at the back for McAuley (for legs and mobility) and Morelos for Lafferty (for pure, raw lethality). But I think young Middleton has earned his place. Let’s hope he can turn it on tomorrow.
Let’s make Rangers v Villarreal a special night at Ibrox.
Is this the XI to help us do it?
Rangers vs Villarreal – Predicted Rangers XI
GK – Allan McGregor
RB – James Tavernier
CB – Connor Goldson
CB – Joe Worrall
LB – Jon Flanagan
CDM – Ryan Jack
CM – Scott Arfield
CM – Ovie Ejaria
RW – Daniel Candeias
LW – Glenn Middleton
ST – Alfredo Morelos
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