Cyriel Dessers axed in four changes – Rangers predicted XI v Athletic Bilbao
Barry Ferguson could make four changes to his Rangers starting line-up to take on Athletic Bilbao in the Europa League on Thursday.
After falling to a 2-0 defeat against Hibernian at Ibrox on Saturday (5 April), the Gers have plenty of work to do if they are to progress through another round of European football.
With the game over two legs, Rangers don’t have to rely on getting a result immediately, with their form at Ibrox more than fragile this season.
John Souttar unavailable for Rangers
After a defeat, Ferguson would no doubt be keen to make changes to his side anyway. However, going into this game, he does have some enforced changes thrust upon his decisions, too.
There has been plenty of debate over whether Jack Butland is worthy of keeping his place in the team after yet another error against Hibernian.
| Appearances | Goals Conceded | Clean Sheets |
| 25 | 26 | 10 |
However, in a game as big as this, it seems unlikely that Ferguson would rock the boat and therefore, Butland is expected to remain between the sticks.
John Souttar has to sit this one out having received a yellow card last time out against Fenerbahce which suspends him from the game.
With this in mind, Leon Balogun and Robin Propper may come into the squad to join Dujon Sterling and James Tavernier at the back.
Ridvan Yilmaz could also make his way into the side to replace Jefte, who was the preferred option against Hibernian.
However, given the Brazilian won no tackles, lost 50 per cent of his duels and made just one clearance [FotMob], Ferguson may well be keen to mix things up again.
Cyriel Dessers axed by Ferguson
Connor Barron is likely to retain his place in the midfield with Nico Raskin alongside him as the pair look to support their side pushing ahead away from home.
Mohamed Diomande is another player the Light Blues need to cope without, with him also suspended for the game due to yellow cards.
Therefore, Ianis Hagi may make his way into the starting line-up, having had to settle for an appearance from the bench against Hibernian.
Hagi has three goals and five assists in Scottish Premiership action this term and now needs to look to have a similar impact in Europe.
Vaclav Cerny is expected to retain his position in the side having been a standout member of the squad this term while Hamza Igamane pushes forward and Cyriel Dessers drops out of the team.
Igamane has had a strong season, but he seems to show more promise in front of the goal when he plays as a sole striker, which could prompt Ferguson to make this change.