Rangers boss Steven Gerrard has hinted that young Josh McPake will be involved in tomorrow’s match with St. Joseph’s
The Liverpool legend said he pulled highly-rated 17-year-old Gers talent Josh McPake out of the 2-0 development squad win over Cambridge United to prepare him for the tie.
Speaking in a press conference looking forward to the match, Gerrard confirmed McPake is in the plans for tomorrow’s game. He also confirmed fellow youth talent Dapo Mebude will miss out through injury.
“Dapo has a little small niggle at the moment so he’s not available for selection,” said Gerrard. “That’s the reason why he missed the game yesterday.
“But I pulled Josh out of the game because he’s in the plans for tomorrow.
It’s a superb opportunity for the youngster who impressed in a brief cameo against Oxford United a few weeks ago.
McPake is a highly rated talent at Ibrox and the club and fans will be delighted to have recently tied him down on a three-year deal.
With Rangers leading 4-0 from the first leg, it’s the perfect chance to introduce some of the club’s younger players to a packed Ibrox.
Gerrard also admitted in the pre-match press conference that there will be changes for tomorrow’s match at Ibrox.
The Gers boss wants those players who get the chance tomorrow to grab the opportunity with both hands.
“The team will look different tomorrow,” said Gerrard. “It gives me an opportunity to give people an opportunity so yeah it will look different.
“It’s an opportunity for the lads that are selected and people who come off the bench to keep pushing fitness-wise and show me that you can play in the system and you want one of these shirts.
“I’m looking for a strong performance from the group and we want to win the game.
“I’m told the fans are going to be there in their numbers tomorrow and every time we go to Ibrox we’re representing the fans so we want a good home win.”
