Sparta Prague face ‘big problems’ for Rangers Europa League showdown at Ibrox
Sparta Prague are set to be without three key players for next week’s crucial Europa League clash with Rangers, according to the Daily Record.
The Gers picked up a creditable 0-0 draw in the Czech capital last week to set up a potentially pivotal showdown between the sides at Ibrox on 9 November.
However, the Scottish publication reported in its print edition on Friday [3 November, page 50] that Sparta are facing “big problems”.
Captain Ladislav Krejci, winger Lukas Haraslin and midfielder Matej Rynes are all likely to miss the match, leaving the visitors “depleted” for their trip to Glasgow.
It is reported that Krejci has a fractured cheekbone, while Haraslin and Rynes are both nursing thigh strains that should keep them out.
Huge match
Next week’s match with Sparta has real ‘winner takes all’ vibes to it given the way Group C is looking at the midway point.
Rangers and Sparta both have four points to their name, while leaders Real Betis have six and bottom side Aris Limassol have three.
Philippe Clement’s men still have to host Aris – who they lost to in Cyprus – and travel to Real Betis, but at least progression is in their own hands.
Not to wish ill on anyone, but the fact Sparta could be without three starters is only a positive for the Light Blues.
In many ways, though, that could provide the Czech side with added motivation to come away with a positive result.
A point would be welcomed by Sparta more so than Rangers, so the pressure is on Clement’s men to get at their opponents.
Before any focus can turn to that game, though, the Gers have the small matter of the Scottish League Cup semi-final with Hearts this weekend.
In other Rangers news, a Sky Sports pundit expects one of Michael Beale’s favourites to now be shut out at Ibrox.