Rangers manager Philippe Clement is preparing his Ibrox charges as they get ready to kick off their Europa League campaign away to Malmo.
The Gers have not enjoyed a particularly happy rivalry with the Scandinavian club over the years, being beaten in Champions League qualifiers on both occasions the two sides have met.
Being knocked out back in 2011, Rangers fans will also have that devastating Ibrox defeat against the 10-men Swedes under Steven Gerrard in 2021 fresh in their memory.
Ahead of a challenging Europa League campaign that will see Rangers face off against the likes of Lyon, Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United, the Gers will be desperate to get things off to a positive start in Malmo.
But how will Philippe Clement line his new-look Rangers team up in Sweden?
Our Rangers team to face Malmo in Europa League
Rangers goalkeeper Jack Butland has come in for criticism at times this season but the weekend’s thumping 3-0 win over Dundee was a return to form for the stopper.
Had it not been for a sterling Butland display, Rangers might’ve faced a nervy return to Ibrox and barring any late disaster the keeper will start in Malmo.
John Souttar is in line for more exposure to the Scotland starting XI and not without good reason this season.
The Scotland international centre-back has been on fine form and we expect the 27-year-old defender to start alongside Robin Pröpper on Europa League duties.
With James Tavernier expected to start, Rangers need a ‘solution’ at left-back with Brazilian signing Jefte suspended and Ridvan Yilmaz injured.
Whilst there might be a temptation to start academy talent Robbie Fraser, we suspect Dujon Sterling will get the nod in the berth.
In midfield, we expect Connor Barron to continue in the middle of the pitch with Mohamed Diomande recalled to the starting XI alongside him.
Tom Lawrence might still have to win some Rangers fans over, but the Welshman has earned a shot in the number ten berth in Sweden.
On the flanks, we reckon Clement will fancy the pace and winger qualities of Oscar Cortes off the left and Vaclav Cerny off the right.
Cyriel Dessers – who netted a double and won a penalty against Dundee – will also be trusted to add to his seven-goal haul already this season as the Gers take to the pitch v Malmo.
Rangers predicted XI v Malmo (Europa League)
GK – Jack Butland
DR – James Tavernier
DCR – John Souttar
DCL – Robin Pröpper
DL – Dujon Sterling
CM – Connor Barron
CM – Mohamed Diomande
CAM – Tom Lawrence
RW – Vaclav Cerny
ST – Cyriel Dessers
LW – Oscar Cortes
