Sport
Rangers predicted XI vs Benfica: Clement makes a change as he picks stars
Rangers welcome Benfica to Ibrox for the second leg of their Europa League last-16 tie on Thursday night and Philippe Clement has some difficult decisions to make on his starting XI.
Following a hectic run of games which yielded a 2-2 draw in Lisbon last week before progressing to the Scottish Cup semi-finals at the weekend with a 2-0 victory over Hibernian, the Belgian boss will be concerned that injuries are starting to pile up again.
Dujon Sterling has been ruled out of the second leg with a minor issue which saw him require treatment from the club’s medical staff at Easter Road, while Ross McCausland was also forced off but will be given every chance to prove his fitness.
One timely boost is the imminent return of former Norwich City playmaker Todd Cantwell after several weeks on the sidelines, but Clement has confirmed he won’t be in a position to play 90 minutes to suggest a place on the bench seems likely.
The pressure is piling on Benfica pre-match in their homeland and defeat here might just be enough to ramp up the panic dial to new levels. Here’s how Glasgow World reckons Clement will set up his team for battle against the Portuguese giants:
1. Jack Butland – GK
Expected to earn a stunning recall to the England squad. Has turned in strong displays against Hibs and Benfica in the last two games, making a string of important saves.
2. James Tavernier – RB
The skipper missed from the penalty spot against Hibs and wasn’t at his creative best in Lisbon last week. An improved performance is needed.
3. Connor Goldson – RCB
Scored an own goal in Lisbon to cast a slight shadow over what was a decent showing. Mentally and physically tough to bounce back to his best.
4. John Souttar – LCB
Has enjoyed a solid run of games considering his history of injuries. Put in a commanding shift at Easter Road.
5. Ridvan Yilmaz – LB
Appears to have finally established himself as the first-choice left back in recent weeks. His final ball is improving and can pose a threat.
6. John Lundstram – CM
Looked a bit off colour and weary in Lisbon but has been very strong on the domestic front. Deserving of a new contract. A mainstay.
7. Mohamed Diomande – CM
Has really caught the eye since joining the club. Slight off-day against Hibs at the weekend but looks to have got up to speed quite quickly.
8. Tom Lawrence – CAM
Clement will continue to monitor his game time closely to ensure he avoids injury. A strong influence in the final leg last week.
9. Ross McCausland – RW
Played the closing minutes in Lisbon and was a first-half replacement at Easter Road before being forced off again with a knock. Clement will give him every chance of making the team.
10. Fabio Silva – LW
Outstanding against Benfica during the first leg but not quite at the same level against Hibs a few days later. A classy operator, who has looked fairly comfortable on the left flank in recent games.
11. Cyriel Dessers – CF
Didn’t influence the Hibs game as much as he would’ve liked and faded somewhat in Lisbon last week to suggest he may need a rest, but it’s likely that he’ll be asked to go again.
