Rangers travel to Greece knowing that victory over Olympiacos all but secures at least a play-off place in the next round of the Europa League.
There are more difficult fixtures ahead in Man Utd and Spurs so, victory on Thursday evening would lessen the pressure when facing the Premier League giants.
Olympiacos are in a similar position to Rangers in the Europa League league phase table and have also played Malmo and Lyon, matching the win and defeat that Philippe Clement saw his squad achieve – with injuries a factor, this is who the manager could pick in a pivotal game.
Rangers predicted XI vs Olympiacos
For whatever reason, Rangers defence has got into a bad habit of conceding stupid goals. As it was against Aberdeen, so it was against Motherwell too.
There is little that Clement can do about this other than change personnel and this is exactly what he should do.
Defence
On thing that Olympiacos proved at Ibrox last summer, is that they have pace all over the team.
By bringing Dujon Sterling in at right back and Neraysho Kasanwirjo alongside John Souttar, the Light Blues rear guard would look instantly more athletic.
Against better teams, being able to defend space and one-v-one is hugely important, both skills that Sterling and Kasanwirjo excel at.
Midfield
In midfield, the trio picks itself given the second half display at Hampden and injuries. Mohamed Diomande “changed the game” according to Andy Halliday, and Connor Barron, alongside Nicolas Raskin, covered every blade of grass.
It is an engine room with plenty of aggression, work rate and intent.
Attack
Unfortunately, there is no place for Danilo in the Europa League squad so Cyriel Dessers will lead the line – again.
The 30-year old got his goal, but he also butchered three other chances to give Rangers the lead in the first half alone.
With Nedim Bajrami and Vaclav Cerny bang in form, hopefully, they can create the sort of chances that even Dessers can’t miss.
Rangers predicted XI to face Olympiacos
