Rangers Manager to Make Changes against Sparta Prague Tonight

EUROPA LEAGUE

Giovanni van Bronckhorst has said that there will “definitely” be some changes to the Rangers team as he takes charge for the first time against Sparta Prague.

The Dutchman watched from the stand as Rangers lost to Hibernian in Sunday’s Scottish League Cup semi-final.

Victory by a margin of two goals or more today would secure the Ibrox side a place in the Europa League knockout rounds.

“We were not happy with the result or the goals conceded,” said the manager.

“We have to be much more focused and compact in the defensive side of the match. It is important in Europe to be solid at the back.

“You will see a team in a system I like to play and how I feel is best to play against Prague. You will definitely see some changes.”

Filip Helander remains injured for Rangers while fellow defender Jack Simpson and striker Jermain Defoe are not available for European matches.

Sparta’s 1-0 win on matchday two, if anything, flattered Rangers, who were second best until late in the match. That gave the Prague side a foothold in Group A after their opening draw with Brondby.

However, successive defeats by group winners Lyon allowed Rangers to draw level on points with Pavel Vrba’s side. And, after a weekend 4-0 loss to Slovacko, Sparta are fourth in their domestic league.

Rangers manager Giovanni van Bronckhorst said: “It is a very short time with the players but they can already sense what I want to change.

“The way we have to prepare physically and mentally, you cannot do everything in two days but step-by-step the players will learn the style of play. They look fresh and sharp, we are well prepared and go for a good result.”

TODAY

Europa League

Brondby v Lyon

Rangers v Spa’Prague

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PSV v Sturm Graz

Leicester v Legia

Frankfurt v Antwerp

Olympiakos v Fenerbahce

Galatasaray v Marseille

Lokomotiv v Lazio

Midtjylland v Braga