Rangers vs Leipzig
Ibrox Stadium Rangers

Rangers FC play their first game in the Europa League this week when they take on Villarreal away from home.

And before the game, Steven Gerrard will have to make a couple of tough decision regarding his best XI.

During the past couple of games, the Light Blues have played with two strikers up front but against Villarreal, the manager will not have that luxury given Alfredo Morelos is ruled out.




The Colombian’s absence could be a huge blow for the Light Blues and a blessing in disguise for the Spanish side.








Morelos had been one of the better performers for Rangers last season and the striker continued that form this campaign – scoring six goals in just 13 matches.

And now his international teammate and Villarreal player Carlos Bacca has revealed that the absence of Alfredo Morelos will be a huge plus for the Yellow Submarine.




Bacca said: “Morelos is a really good young player. I spoke to him during the international break and he told me he had been sent off in the last round so he wouldn’t play against us. He was very disappointed about it but it’s good for us because he’s a dangerous player.




“He did well when he came on in the international against Venezuela – he got a chance to score immediately. Unfortunately, he didn’t take it, but he showed he knows how to get into the right position up front.

“It’s a pity for him but it’s good for us that he will be missing. He’s a strong boy and he would be a tough opponent so it’s lucky for us he won’t play.”




Apart from Alfredo Morelos, Jon Flanagan is also suspended while midfielder Ryan Jack remains a doubt for the game as reports suggest he will undergo a late fitness test.



Read: 4-3-2-1 Rangers’ predicted line-up vs Villarreal.

Read: Steven Gerrard has a long list of absentees for the Europa League clash.




Read: Rangers ace reveals what Gerrard told him while he was failing to score goals for the team.




Read: Fans are loving what Steven Gerrard said after Rangers’ 4-0 win over Dundee.

Read: 23 Y/O winger reveals what it felt like when Rangers chose to sign Eros Grezda during the summer instead of him.