Barron To Start? | Predicted 4-2-3-1 Rangers Lineup To Face Manchester United | OneFootball

Despite three back-to-back wins at Ibrox, a dreadful away form has put Rangers on the back foot ahead of travelling to Old Trafford for their high-profile Europa League encounter against Manchester United. They are currently in contention for an automatic Round of 16 qualification, and so are the Red Devils who are a point and a place above the Gers in the league phase standings.

Meanwhile, the Light Blues have grabbed some massive results on the road including wins against Malmo and Nice. On the contrary, United are struggling in the Theatre of Dreams after four defeats in their last five Premier League fixtures. Ruben Amorim has yet to turn things around since succeeding Erik ten Hag, and Rangers, though decimated by injuries, must exhibit their flair and finesse against the English hotshots.

Predicted 4-2-3-1 Rangers Lineup To Face Manchester United

Defence

18-year-old Mason Munn made his senior debut last weekend against minnows Fraserburgh in the FA Cup fourth-round fixture. However, Liam Kelly is expected to reclaim his place between the sticks on Thursday night amid the injury absence of former Man United custodian Jack Butland.

GLASGOW, SCOTLAND – DECEMBER 12: Hamza Igamane of Rangers is challenged by Radu Dragusin of Tottenham during the UEFA Europa League 2024/25 League Phase MD6 match between Rangers FC and Tottenham Hotspur at Ibrox Stadium on December 12, 2024 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)

Although Ridvan Yilmaz has impressed as a makeshift right-back, skipper James Tavernier would be a more natural option considering his overlapping runs, crosses and attacking contribution. Jefte, the Brazilian left fullback, offers a balance between defence and attack. Also, Philippe Clement might finally opt for experience in deep defence with Robin Pröpper and Leon Balogun available for selection. While Clinton Nsiala is not a part of Rangers’ Europa League squad, injuries to Neraysho Kasanwirjo, John Souttar and Dujon Sterling leave the Belgian boss with little alternative in the heart of the backline.

Midfield

Nicolas Raskin was rested over the weekend but should return to action deep down the midfield. Mohamed Diomande is not available due to suspension and the young Connor Barron must grab the opportunity having lost his place recently in the middle of the park.

Ianis Hagi, Rabbi Matondo and Danilo have not been registered for the Europa League and the persistent injury problems of Oscar Cortes and Tom Lawrence leave Clement with limited options in and around the attacking third. Vaclav Cerny has impressed from the right, also, Ross McCausland could get the nod as a left midfielder. Nedim Bajrami must showcase his creative spark as a ‘number 10’ having lost his influence in recent games.

Cyriel Dessers scored a hat-trick against Fraserburgh, yet he might make way for Hamza Igamane who has been exquisite while spearheading the attack.