Kenny Miller: Rangers need to be ‘braver’ and ‘more aggressive’ against Liverpool
Former Rangers striker Kenny Miller believes the side’s passive approach last week at Anfield cannot continue during Wednesday’s clash at Ibrox.
Rangers remain winless in the Champions League so far this season, and Giovanni van Bronckhorst’s side are yet to even find the back of the net in any of their three games.
Their latest loss came against Liverpool at Anfield last Tuesday, but Rangers will need at least a point during the Reds’ trip to Ibrox this week if they are to keep their European hopes alive.
For that to happen, Miller believes Rangers need to change up their approach and be more aggressive against a Liverpool side fresh from a Premier League defeat to Arsenal.
Speaking to Sky Sports, Miller said: “Harness that energy that’s going to come from the stands and really go on the front foot and play a lot better than what they did down at Anfield last week.
“They can’t be passive. They need to be a little bit more aggressive in their approach – and that doesn’t just mean you go about kicking people but it does mean you get contact. You don’t allow them to dictate play and have it all their own way. But in the same token when you’ve got the ball you’re a little bit braver.
“They may not be playing at the highest level that they’re capable of at the moment but they’re good players. So when you’ve got the ball it’s really important to use it. You can be aggressive in all different types of ways and Rangers need to be that tomorrow.”
Go for it
Van Bronckorst’s defensive and cautious approach in recent Champions League matches hasn’t fared well at all.
The Dutchman has made mistakes tactically and through his lineup, and as a result Rangers sit on the brink of European elimination.
It was always going to be tough for Gers to qualify from the incredibly tough Group A, but their best chance comes from going toe-to-toe with visitors at Ibrox.
The defeat at Napoli was worsened by James Sands’ red card and two late goals, but the energetic approach did trouble the Serie A outfit at times.
Similar intensity will be needed when Liverpool arrive. Ibrox will no doubt be rocking, and the players have to keep the energy alive through their performances.
It’s time for Van Bronckhorst to unshackle his side and let them pile the pressure on Liverpool. They’ve had a terrible time conceding first in games, and if Rangers are able to find the net early on then it’ll only spur the fans and players on more.
A fast start is necessary.
In other Rangers news, Ally McCoist weighs in on whether Antonio Colak or Alfredo Morelos should start v Liverpool