Celtic staged a stunning Champions League comeback on Tuesday night, coming from behind to defeat RB Leipzig 3-1 at home. The Hoops now have seven points in Europe and are ranked 13th in the table.
Rangers will face Olympiacos at the Karaiskakis Stadium this evening, looking to add three points to their total. Philippe Clement’s squad has six points so far and has the potential to go significantly up the Europa League standings if those ahead of them drop points.
Let’s take a look at the most recent news for both clubs ahead of Rangers’ European showdown.
Club ‘working to cancel Celtic transfer agreement’
Celtic had a reasonably busy summer in terms of transfers, bringing in numerous new full-time signings while releasing a number of experienced players, including Matt O’Riley, to balance the books. The Hoops loaned out some players and signed Álex Valle from Barcelona till the conclusion of the season. However, Greg Taylor is the sole senior option in the club’s contracted left-back position.
It is unclear how long this will continue to be the case. The Daily Mail claims that with his contract ending at the end of the season, talks ‘had reached a state of deadlock’ and while the conversations remain ongoing, there’s been a ‘bump in the road’. He is free to speak with other teams in January, as things stand.
Rangers ‘red flags’ raised ahead of Olympiacos
Rangers will return to the Europa League Thursday evening, aiming for a massive three points. Clement’s team will go to Greece after narrowly defeating Motherwell in the Premier Sports Cup at the weekend.
The Gers advanced to the final against Celtic, but Mark Guidi has suggested several personnel adjustments that Clement should make going forward. On the most recent Go Radio Football Show, Guidi advised that Neraysho Kasanwirjo start ahead of Jefte, following a questionable performance last time out.
“If you’re picking your best XI right now for whatever game, I would start to look at going with [Dujon] Sterling as my right-back and Kasanwirjo as my left-back” , according to Guidi.
“I really like Kasanwirjo’s appearance; I know he is more obviously right-handed, but he can fill in.” Jefte’s defense [against Motherwell] was a huge red sign; I know he’s still young, and Yilmaz, I’m not sure when he’ll be back. But I’d go with Kasanwirjo; simply put a marker down.”
Leave a Reply