Philippe Clement listens to Abdallah Sima’s request for the Benfica match as the Rangers squad is unveiled.
For one night only, the title race is put on hold as the Rangers resume play in Europe.
For the opening leg of their last-16 Europa League matchup with Benfica, the Light Blues are in Lisbon. Following Porto’s crushing of the Portuguese giants over the weekend, Roger Schmidt is fighting to maintain his position at Estadio Da Luz. If Philippe Clement keeps up his habit of finishing projects on the continent, it could add to the suffering. He and his team will feel more confident after their 3-2 group stage victory away to Real Betis on the Iberian peninsula.
However, the Gers don’t need to worry about any injuries. Oscar Cortes required surgery this week, and Ibrox was left on crutches over the weekend by Ross McCausland after match-winning tackle on him by Dan Casey. The winger has trained ahead of tonight’s match, though, so he might still make the team. Although Todd Cantwell is anticipated to return this month, the second leg might be a more achievable goal.
Rabbi Matondo and Abdallah Sima leave Clement light out wide, and Kieran Dowell and Danilo have been missing for a long time. Sima, though, was eager to go to Lisbon with the team, according to Clement’s earlier this week statements.
Having a Sunday speech “Abdallah Sima visited my office this morning. He requested, “Gaffer, can I come with the team to Lisbon?” knowing that he would still be out for a few weeks as he worked on his rehabilitation. It appears unlikely, though, that the manager will take a chance on the Brighton loanee just yet.
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