Even though Philippe Clement has only been the Rangers manager for two games, he already has a serious headache as he gets ready for the pivotal Europa League matchup with Sparta Prague.
With three points apiece and hopes of qualifying for the knockout stage, the group is evenly matched amongst Aris Limassol, Real Betis, and Sparta. However, the Belgian manager has a dilemma because his team traveled to the Czech Republic without a designated left-back. During Clement’s first victory over Hibs, first-choice Borna Barisic hurt his thigh; Ridvan Yilmaz replaced him in the 4-0 victory.
Furthermore, although it would have offered a solution, Clement’s predecessor, Michael Beale, chose not to include Yilmaz in his UEFA squad as a regular backup. The versatile Dujon Sterling is also out of the game after not being selected for the Scottish Premiership team that defeated Nick Montgomery’s team in Govan.
In order to defeat the Czech champs, Clement will now have to utilize one of his Rangers stars out of position. Young Adam Devine may be drafted in at full-back, while Ben Davies may switch from the left side of a center-back duo to left back.
Another option would be to ask John Lundstram to cover the defensive position against Brian Priske’s team. Jose Cifuentes may make a comeback after the knock he sustained while serving abroad, while Tom Lawrence, Rabbi Matondo, Kieran Dowell, and Zak Lovelace are still out.
