Butland out, Tavernier and new signing start – Rangers predicted XI v Panathinaikos
Rangers are preparing to kickstart their season with a Champions League qualifier against Panathinaikos on Tuesday.
The Gers are gearing up to welcome the Greek outfit to Ibrox on 22 July in a huge clash in what is the first competitive clash of the season.
This will certainly represent a baptism of fire for Russell Martin, who is in need of a positive result in the running to secure a spot in Europe’s elite competition.
A friendly clash against Club Brugge has been the only true preparation for the new head coach, who will still be assessing his squad at this early stage.
This could see the Englishman name a side with plenty of experience in Govan as he prepares for a tie which will set the tone for his tenure in the dugout.
James Tavernier to start v Panathinaikos
There is no doubt that one of the biggest decisions that the ex-Southampton boss has on his hands is who he chooses in between the sticks.
It does feel likely that Liam Kelly is once again going to get the nod, ahead of Jack Butland, after starting in pre-season ahead of this European clash.
Ahead of the Scot, Martin could welcome Nasser Djiga into the side after his move from Wolves alongside John Souttar at the heart of defence.
Flanking this duo, Jefte looks likely to start after Ridvan Yilmaz was cut from the squad, while James Tavernier could start on the opposite side ahead of new signing Max Aarons.
Handing a competitive debut to the Bournemouth loanee could prove to be a risk not worth taking, especially alongside a fellow new signing.
The base of midfield could feature a largely familiar feel as Mohammed Diomande could be joined by the exit-linked Nico Raskin in a high-quality, stable pairing for the Light Blues.
Kieran Dowell could have Rangers lifeline handed by Martin
It is certainly going to be interesting to see how the head coach balances his squad as departure links continue to swirl around.
This could see Kieran Dowell come in from the start after a season on loan last time out at League One champions Birmingham City.
| Stat | Kieran Dowell |
| Appearances | 23 |
| Goals | 5 |
| Assists | 5 |
With the uncertainty surrounding the likes of Hamza Igamane, the Englishman could get the green light over new signing Thelo Aasgaard.
The 27-year-old could be joined by wide options, Nedim Bajrami and Oscar Cortes, who certainly need to prove themselves wearing blue this campaign.
That is also true of Danilo, who could be set to lead the line ahead of the departure-linked Cyriel Dessers in the season’s opener in Govan.
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