Boyd moots major change ahead of Rangers Europa League clash with Bilbao
Barry Ferguson will have some crucial decisions to make on the selection front when his Rangers side face Athletic Bilbao.
Rangers have it all to play for in the reverse fixture against Bilbao, having battled hard against the Spanish outfit at Ibrox despite being reduced to ten men.
Robbin Propper’s sending off left the Light Blues fighting an uphill battle, but they prevailed for the most part and have an excellent chance to secure their spot in the semi-finals of the Europa League.
In order to achieve that, Kris Boyd thinks Ferguson will make some specific changes.
Ferguson has defensive dilemma ahead of Bilbao clash
With Propper suspended and Dujon Sterling out injured, Rangers will be without two of the defenders who started the first leg against the La Liga side.
Propper’s absence will be a blow, but the return of Harry Souttar may subdue those concerns, with Boyd mooting a return to the lineup for Jefte in a defensive reshuffle.
Speaking via Sky Sports News (16 April, 10:30am), he said: “Obviously the injuries are now going to change it, and I wouldn’t be surprised if Yilmaz operates at right wing back and Jefte on the left, and Tavernier goes back into a back three.
| Opponent | Result |
| Dundee (A) | 3-4 W |
| Hibernian (H) | 0-2 L |
| Athletic Bilbao (H) | 0-0 D |
| Aberdeen (A) | 2-2 D |
“We’ll need to wait and see because Barry Ferguson obviously spoke about injuries as well, and, for Rangers, they will go to try and frustrate Athletic Club as well and see where that takes them.”
Jefte’s inclusion would be a risk for Rangers given the lack of confidence he has instilled for the Light Blues when featuring throughout the season, but it may be the only option for Ferguson.
Rangers need to find a way to win
Domestically, this season has been a nightmare for Rangers, and if they are to win a trophy, they will have to do so via the Europa League.
Ferguson will be somewhat disappointed to have missed the opportunity to take advantage of the home leg, but with the score level, it is still well within their hands to advance into the next round.
Rangers are certainly not the favourites for the clash, but they have shown in the past that they have the quality to cause an upset, and if they can get an early goal, that momentum could play a huge part in the game.