Predicted Rangers XI vs Olympiacos: 4 changes for Greek assignment as form of two key players leaves huge question marks

Following their come-from-behind League Cup semi-final win over Motherwell on Sunday, Rangers swiftly turn their attention towards facing Greek side Olympiacos in Athens on Thursday night.

Philippe Clement’s men lock horns with last season’s Europa Conference League champions at the 33,000-seater Karaiskakis Stadium, famed for its hostile atmosphere and home to an extremely passionate fanbase.

Aiming to build on the momentum gathered in Mount Florida following a spirited second half performance against the Steelmen, the Rangers manager will have some difficult selections headaches to weigh up. The Light Blues finished the last-four clash arguably much stronger than they started the game, with captain James Tavernier’s withdrawal doing little to weaken his team mates.

A number of substitutes Clement made proved effective with Dujon Sterling impressing at right-back as he finally looks to nail down a place in his preferred position, while Dutchman Neraysho Kasanwirjo also slotted in seamlessly at centre-half after replacing veteran defender Leon Balogun.

Further changes could also appear in the forward line with Tom Lawrence rated doubtful after picking up a knock that saw him forced off injured during the first-half against Motherwell. His replacement Mohamed Diomande looked comfortable in a more advanced position with Connor Barron and Nicolas Raskin pulling the strings in behind.

Rangers fans will also hope to see Brazilian striker Danilo handed a starting berth after recovering from his recent injury troubles, with Cyriel Dessers and Hamza Igamane both flattering to deceive in recent games when tasked with leading the line.

So who will be in and who will be out? We expect Clement to make FOUR changes from Sunday’s match with skipper Tavernier, Balogun, Dessers and Lawrence all dropping out. Here’s who we think will be involved:

• Jack Butland - GK
• Dujon Sterling - RB
• John Souttar - RCB
• Neraysho Kasanwirjo - LCB
• Jefte - LB
• Connor Barron - CM
• Nicolas Raskin - CM
• Mohamed Diomande - CAM
• Nedim Bajrami - LW
• Vaclav Cerny - RW
• Danilo - ST

SUBS: Kelly (GK), Tavernier, Propper, Dessers, Dowell, Balogun, Igamane, Hagi, McCausland, Fraser, Lovelace