Igamane starts as new signing axed – Rangers predicted XI v Panathinaikos
Rangers face another crucial night ahead of them on Wednesday (30 July) when they take on Panathinaikos in the second leg of their Champions League qualifier.
Russell Martin’s side have a two-goal lead to take with them for the return fixture against the Greek giants, after a memorable night at Ibrox in the first leg.
Goals from Danilo and Findlay Curtis saw Rangers draw with Middlesbrough in their final pre-season friendly on Saturday (26 July).
Several key players were left out of that game, and with that in mind, Ibrox News tries to predict the XI that will start against Panathinaikos in midweek.
Martin to take Igamane gamble as Gassama is dropped v Panathinaikos
Hamza Igamane’s absence was the major talking point from Rangers’ draw at the weekend.
The Moroccan missed the game as a result of a minor injury that he sustained in the first leg against Panathinaikos, but Martin is thought to be hopeful that he could be fit to line up in Athens.
The former Southampton and Swansea boss could be about to take a gamble and start Igamane with the view to maybe getting 60 minutes out of him, on a night when he will need his best players to be at the top of their game.
It’s sure to be an intimidating atmosphere in the Greek capital, and that will likely mean that Martin opts for experienced heads wherever possible, which could see youngster Findlay Curtis drop to the bench.
The backline will likely revert to the quartet that kept a clean sheet in the reverse fixture, while Djeidi Gassama could be dropped after starting against Middlesbrough.
The Frenchman has made an impressive start to his time at Ibrox, but Martin will be keen to get Igamane involved, and he will likely need the additional defensive cover that Kieran Dowell can provide.
However, Gassama will likely be looked at to provide another big impact from the bench if needed.
Danilo has been in strong form in pre-season, but Cyriel Dessers may be preferred to lead the line, as the Gers will know that they will need to make the most of the opportunities that come their way.
Panathinaikos clash is huge for Rangers
Rangers’ imminent second leg in Europe could be huge for Martin and Co.
They may have a two-goal advantage to their name at the moment, but the job is far from done as they head out to Southern Europe in a few days.
If they concede an early goal on the night, the complexion of the tie could turn on its head, and it could become a very difficult situation for the Gers to manage.
Rangers would likely face a tricky Europa League qualifying tie against Shakhtar Donetsk if they lose to Panathinaikos, which creates the prospect that they could miss out on European football altogether if things don’t go to plan on Wednesday (30 July).
The domestic campaign may be the priority, but Martin won’t want to face the financial impact or the embarrassment of seeing this tie slip away from his side.
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