View: Kemar Roofe to be axed, two changes – Predicted Rangers XI v Braga
Giovanni van Bronckhorst is expected to wield the axe and make two changes to the Rangers team for their Europa League quarter-final against Braga.
The Blues were beaten at Ibrox by fierce rivals Celtic on Sunday to all but end their hopes of back-to-back Scottish Premiership titles, but their attention now turns to a potential Europa League triumph.
The boss will likely look to make changes to the team to freshen up the legs and also remove any under-performers to give his side the best chance of success while away in Portugal.
One man that won’t be rotated is goalkeeper Allan McGregor. The 40-year-old has been sensational in recent weeks and kept his side in the game for long periods on Sunday, so will certainly start the game if available.
In defence, things aren’t likely to change much either. James Tavernier and Connor Goldson are certain starters if fit with their form still excellent, while Calvin Bassey has made the left-back spot his own ahead of Borna Barisic.
Alongside Goldson in defence, Leon Balogun has held the starter role on a regular basis and he should keep that place with Filip Helander ineligible to play in Europe this season.
Ryan Jack’s excellent form has continued since his return from injury and he will start in midfield as Rangers look to control the game and possession.
He was partnered by John Lundstram against Celtic, but Glen Kamara is fit and available and can provide some more energy in the centre of the park so could come in.
Aaron Ramsey rewarded the manager with a second goal in two starts at the weekend and should keep his place in the number ten position, linking well with Joe Aribo and Ryan Kent on the wings.
They are likely to keep their starting spots for the game too, but the number nine position is likely to see a change.
With no Alfredo Morelos it was Kemar Roofe who got the nod against Celtic but he was largely poor and really lacked a threat. Because of that it could be a logical thing to see Fashion Sakala play through the middle in his place.
The Zambia international has scored plenty of goals this season and with his pace will be more of a threat in behind too.
Predicted Rangers XI v Braga: McGregor; Tavernier, Goldson, Balogun, Bassey; Jack, Kamara, Ramsey; Aribo, Sakala, Kent.
In other Rangers news, ‘Usual stuff’ – Rangers mocked by ex-Celtic ace on Twitter following Old Firm derby defeat
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