Porto defender Ivan Marcano has spoken about the threat posed by Rangers attackers, ahead of tonight’s Europa League clash, as quoted by the Glasgow Evening Times.
Both teams go into the fixture locked on three points in Group G and looking to go top of the standings.
Despite the similar starts to their European campaign’s, though, Porto are heavy favourites for tonight’s clash in the fortress-like Estadio do Dragao.
Yet, judging by Marcano’s comments, that doesn’t mean they’ll be taking Steven Gerrard’s men lightly.
“I think Rangers are a good team but an aggressive team – they are very physical,” said the defender, as quoted by the Glasgow Evening Times. “They have players that can make the difference – guys like Morelos , Defoe and Ojo so we have to be wary of them.”
“But, we have gone seven games out of eight without conceding a goal so we are confident we can handle them. We are defending well as a team and that gives you confidence.”
Verdict
Based on Rangers’ qualifying campaign and their start to the competition proper, it’s fair to pick out these three individuals as carrying a big threat.
Morelos scored seven times in qualifying and in the defeat to Young Boys in Bern, while Defoe played less regularly, but did score twice as a substitute against St Joseph’s and is currently the Premiership’s top goalscorer.
Meanwhile, Sheyi Ojo’s wonderful strike against Feyenoord was enough to secure all three points in the group stage opener.
There are question marks over his place in the side, though, following a poor weekend display at Hearts.
Given that the tie is away from home, Steven Gerrard is likely to go with just the one winger, with Ryan Kent expected to start after appearing as a substitute at the weekend.
Here’s our Predicted XI for tonight’s tie.
