Steven Gerrard has previewed Tuesday afternoon’s clash with St Joseph’s, as quoted by the club’s website.
The Gers’ have their first competitive fixture of the season, just two days after their first official friendly of pre-season.
The players have had the benefit of two earlier bounce matches though and the manager is happy with his squad’s progress. Particularly, with the new signings who have come in over recent weeks.
“I thought in the main they were all very positive with their debuts (against Oxford United),” said Gerrard, as quoted by the club’s website. “A lot of them are here with us tomorrow and should play some part.”
“We are very pleased with not just yesterday’s performance, but how they have all settled in really quickly. Andy [Halliday] and I were speaking in the car on the way here about how they have started very strongly, and straight away they have given me big decisions to make.
“As the weeks go by, sometimes I’m going to have to make big calls and leave big players out who are good players. But, we are hoping this is going to be a 60-game season.”
Verdict
These comments should be exciting for Bears who could see multiple new players in competitive action for the club for the first time today.
Given they only played 30 minutes each on Sunday, Sheyi Ojo and Jordan Jones look the most likely new boys to earn a start.
Yet, the likes of Jake Hastie, Joe Aribo and Greg Stewart could all be involved at some point.
Rangers are massive favourites heading into this tie. St Joseph’s will look to put up a fight, though, especially at home.
Therefore, it’s crucial that the Gers start on the front foot and give themselves some breathing space ahead of the second leg.
Here’s our predicted XI for this afternoon’s fixture.
