Rangers’ crushing of Tottenham Hotspur in the Europa League may have made Philippe Clement’s team decision even more difficult, especially with Celtic in the Scottish League Cup final
Dujon Sterling, the captain who will rekindle his friendship with the formidable Daizen Maeda at Hampden Park, has been proposed as the replacement for James Tavernier.
However, Tavernier continues to be perhaps Rangers’ biggest “threat,” as former Celtic manager Neil Lennon stated in the lead-up to this most recent Old Firm match.
His defensive shortcomings must be weighed against the inventiveness he contributes in the closing third.
As Hamza Igamane resumed his “flying” form against Tottenham with a 47th minute opener on Thursday night, it is hard to envisage the technically restricted but defensively secure Sterling sending the kind of cross Tavernier supplied.
On the other side, Clement is presented with more challenges than “food for fought” because to Ridvan Yilmaz’s vivacious, combative performance in a new character.
Ridvan Yilmaz is praised by Philippe Clement as the Rangers star excels. Yilmaz was selected as a left-sided midfielder, which caused some concern given it was his first start since August following his hamstring injury.
However, Clement might now be tempted to remain with a winning—or, in this case, ‘drawing’—formula when Sunday arrives because the Turkey international was everywhere on the pitch.
Yilmaz is positioned on the left ahead of Jefte Vital, and his strength, perseverance, and ability to go up and down the flank might be very helpful as Rangers try to contain Nicolas Kuhn’s significant presence as well as the overlapping Alistair Johnston.
When asked about his Celtic team selection at full time, Clement responded, “I will consider every option because we will need to see how fast everybody recovers.” “I am aware of Ridvan’s warrior nature from the previous season.
He has been out for a while due to an injury, but he is now returning. Clement emphasises Yilmaz’s tactical acumen and his prowess in possession, noting how easily the £3.4 million Besiktas acquisition has adapted to his new role.
“I knew he could play that position as well because he is a smart guy, he gives his all for the team, and he has quality on the ball to do the right things,” Clement continues.
“You can explain a lot to him in one or two video sessions or training [sessions].” In that sense, he was also effective in that role, and they are intriguing prospects for the future. “There are other options available if needed.”
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