Rangers manager Philippe Clement was limited with who he could select against Sparta Prague but was sill able to call on an experienced XI.
Two weeks ago, the lack of left-backs meant that he had to change formation but a return to his preferred 4-2-3-1 was made for the pivotal Europa League clash at Ibrox
Rangers win against Sparta Prague puts them in great shape to progress to the knockout stages and Philippe Clement’s revolution continues.
Jack Butland – 8
The standard that we’ve come to expect from the 30-year old England international.
The epitome of composure and exactly what you want when face with a team known for being good at set-pieces and long throw ins – a stunning late save almost becoming the norm.
James Tavernier – 7
Captain dependable. As always, the 32-year old was a willing runner in support of his midfield and Todd Cantwell in front of him.
Delivery from open play has been better but he is allowed an off night from time to time.
Borna Barisic – 7
The Croatian has reacted well to the change of manager and played Abdallah Sima in behind his marker on a regular basis rather than choosing the easy option.
Similar to Tavernier, it wasn’t one of his best nights in terms of his crossing.
Connor Goldson – 8
That Sparta Prague changed their centre forward at half-time tells you everything you need to know about his display.
The diagonal ball that we used to see played to Ryan Kent was firing too with the second goal coming from one that was perfectly executed to Sima.
Ben Davies – 8
Always seems to have his place in the team questioned and, as a result, knows that he is under pressure.
It didn’t show though as he consistently won his personal battles both in the air and on the ground.
John Lundstram – 8
Europa League Thursdays are John Lundstram Thursdays with the Rangers midfielder consistently saving his best for mid-week games and his song was heard again against Sparta Prague.
Spent most of his night protecting his back four and Butland’s relative inactivity suggests that he did a good job of it.
Ryan Jack – 7
Looking fully fit and back to his best, alongside Lundstram he patrolled the engine room mopping up loose balls and pressuring the Sparta midfield.
Only complaint is that he held onto the ball for too long on the odd occasion.
Sam Lammers – 5
Can’t fault his work rate, can’t fault his determination to make something happen but nothing is going right for him.
The second half passed him by and it was only a surprise that he lasted as long as he did.
Todd Cantwell – 7
Outstanding in terms of work rate and in possession, always looked to make something happen and was unlucky not to add a second goal.
Abdallah Sima – 5
Did well in the build up to Rangers second goal but switched off for Sparta Prague’s goal and left Barisic and Davies exposed.
Plenty of effort as usual, but not his night in front of goal or when looking to play teammates in.
Danilo – 9
An absolute menace to the Sparta Prague defence.
Showed beautiful composure for his goal, was unlucky not to get a second that was ruled out by VAR and hit the post.
Substitutes
Ross McCausland – 7
A first start must be imminent for the B team graduate, created two gilt edge chances and had a powerful effort well saved.
Cyriel Dessers – 6
Not on long enough to make an impact.
Tom Lawrence – 6
Not on long enough to make an impact.
