Predicted Rangers line-up to face Villarreal in the Europa League
Rangers welcome Spanish club Villarreal to the Ibrox on Thursday for a crunch Europa League group stage clash.
The Gers currently occupy the third place in Group G with the Spanish side sitting on top of the group. It really couldn’t be any tighter in Group G but Rangers, following their 4-3 defeat to Spartak Moscow, would be desperate to get the three points at Ibrox.
A win for Steven Gerrard’s side over Villarreal would be essential not just for qualification, but for potentially getting the top spot in the group.
Team News
Borna Barisic could return to the squad, having played his last game in September. But Ryan Kent is sidelined with a hamstring problem.
Meanwhile, Graham Dorrans and Jamie Murphy are long-term casualties.
Probable Rangers XI
Formation: 4-3-3
Manager: Steven Gerrard
Allan McGregor (GK)
McGregor is an easy pick for the manager as the Scotsman has been brilliant between the sticks.
James Tavernier (RB)
Tavernier has improved massively under Gerrard. He is one of the first names on the team sheet.
Connor Goldson (CB)
Goldson has been the bedrock of the Rangers defence. He is a certain starter against Villarreal.
Gareth McAuley (CB)
McAuley looked very comfortable in his debut game for the Gers against Livingston at the weekend. His experience and leadership skills would be required if Rangers are to beat Villarreal.
Andy Halliday (LB)
Halliday has done a good job at left-back this season. He could get the nod ahead of Flanagan on Thursday.
Ryan Jack (CDM)
Jack stabilises the midfield by bringing a calming influence. He is very good at cutting out opposition attacks and is one of the vital members of Gerrard’s squad.
Scott Arfield (LCM)
Arfield offers dynamism and creativity from the middle of the park. A good passer of the ball, the Canadian would certainly be a part of the engine room against Villarreal.
Lassana Coulibaly (RCM)
Coulibaly is an aggressive midfielder who is blessed with immense power and strength. He completes Rangers’ midfield trio.
Daniel Candeias (RW)
Candeias has scored two goals in two, which makes it highly likely for him to keep his place on the right flank.
Glenn Middleton (LW)
Middleton could give the Villarreal defenders a tough time with his explosive pace and dribbling skills. He should start.
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Alfredo Morelos (ST)
Morelos has been banging goals for fun this season and he’ll get a chance to add to his tally against Villarreal as well.
