Rangers head into the second leg of their Europa League clash with Benfica knowing they have the not-so-secret weapon of Ibrox on their side.
The Light Blues have a fantastic recent history in Europe’s second-tier club competition and a large part of has been the advantage the raucous home support gives them under the lights in Govan. To be fair to them, they’ve done a pretty decent job in away games too and that has been the case here.
A 2-2 draw at Benfica is more than creditable and it’s meant many people have made them favourites to progress, which seems mad to say. Philippe Clement and his team will be confident though and have been limbering up for it.
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Bouncebackability?
A real low moment for Connor Goldson as he headed into his own net to tie the game last week and it followed a poor display against Motherwell. He’s bounced back so many times during his Rangers career though and will be determined to do so again. -
International recognition
On a similar note, it was a real shame on Souttar to be penalised for the handball that led to the penalty for Benfica’s first. Will be back on a high though after returning to the Scotland fold. -
Return for Ross?
Ross McCausland hasn’t started the last two matches and then had to come off against Hibs having come on as a sub. He was a doubt for Thursday but has trained so that will be a boost. With Dujon Sterling injured, the 20-year-old could start if fit. -
The attacking midfielder is someone who HAS been passed fit. But Clement admitted it won’t be for 90 minutes so will have a decision on whether to start him or bring him on. -
Call-up hopes
Butland will learn this week if he has earned a return to the England set-up. Could be a huge week for him. -
Fab Fabio
Fabio Silva has been one of Rangers’ best players in recent weeks, topped off by a well-taken goal against Hibs. Can he keep this run of form going? GET MORE NEWS HERE
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