On Wednesday, Rangers FC will be playing their first European final since 2008 when they face Eintracht Frankfurt in the Europa League finale.
The Gers have been in stellar form in Europe this season so they can very well dream of winning the final as well. They head to Seville at the back of a five-game unbeaten run and on the other hand, the Germans have not been at their brightest in recent weeks.
The Rangers boss had the luxury of using a second-fiddle side against Hearts during the weekend so his first-team players will be fresh and properly rested for the Europa League final. This also means they will
no excuse in case they cannot give their 100% on Wednesday night.
Rangers’ possible tactics for the Europa League final:
DEFENCE:
Against RB Leipzig, Van Bronckhorst switched to a back three in both legs and we think he will use the same tactics in the final as well.
We are expecting Lundstram to slot in alongside Bassey and Goldson as the third central defender with Tavernier and Barisic playing as the two wide men.
Filip Helander is of course ruled out for the rest of the season with a foot injury.
MIDFIELD:
Aaron Ramsey has failed to have the desired impact since his loan move in January and the Gers will send him back to his parent club at the end of this season. The Welsh international has started two of their last three matches though and with Ryan Jack expected to miss out, Ramsey could get another start.
Jack has missed Rangers’ last three matches and is a doubt for the Europa League final as well. If Ryan Jack is not fit in time then the Gers boss will possibly use Aaron Ramsey.
ATTACK:
Alfredo Morelos and Kemar Roofe are both ruled out of the final due to injuries and this is the manager’s major cause of concern. GvB does have Fashion Sakala but the manager is not likely to use him on Wednesday night.
He is going to go with two advanced forwards just like he did in the semi-final with Ryan Kent and Joe Aribo playing in that role. If required at least of them can slot back into midfield and provide extra cover to the Rangers defence.
Rangers predicted line up for the Europa League final:
Predicted Starting XI(5-3-2): McGregor; Bassey, Goldson, Lundstram, Tavernier, Barisic; Scott Wright, Kamara, Aaron Ramsey; Ryan Kent, Joe Aribo.
Read: Are Rangers set to lose this dynamic midfielder to a Premier League club in the summer?
Stats via Fotmob
