Philippe Clement Sets the Tone as Rangers Brace for Crucial Panathinaikos Showdown – Steven Gerrard Deal Unveiled
As Rangers prepare to launch their competitive season with a high-stakes Champions League qualifier against Panathinaikos, manager Philippe Clement has made his stance clear — it’s time for the squad to deliver, and the pressure is on from day one.
The Glasgow giants will host the Greek side at Ibrox on July 22, kicking off what could be a defining campaign. For new boss Russell Martin, it’s a tough opener — a baptism of fire in Europe’s elite competition — and he’ll be hoping to stamp his authority early with a strong result on home soil.
With just a single serious test under his belt — a pre-season friendly against Club Brugge — Martin is still in the process of evaluating his options. As such, expect a line-up heavy on experience as he leans on trusted names to set the tone for his reign.
Goalkeeper Decision Looms
One of the key choices facing Martin is who starts in goal. Liam Kelly, who has featured regularly in pre-season, looks likely to get the nod over Jack Butland for this European curtain-raiser.
Defensive Reinforcements
In defense, Nasser Djiga, recently signed from Wolves, could be handed his competitive debut alongside John Souttar. On the flanks, Jefte seems poised to start in place of Ridvan Yilmaz, who was excluded from the squad, while James Tavernier is expected to retain his place ahead of Max Aarons, with the new Bournemouth loanee potentially eased in more gradually.
Midfield Stability
In midfield, Mohammed Diomande is likely to partner Nico Raskin, despite ongoing speculation about the latter’s future. This duo offers the kind of stability Martin needs in such a high-pressure opener.
Dowell’s Unexpected Opportunity
With transfer speculation swirling around several players, Kieran Dowell may find himself in line for a surprise start. After spending last season on loan at League One winners Birmingham City, Dowell could get the nod over newcomer Thelo Aasgaard, particularly with questions surrounding Hamza Igamane’s availability.
Attacking Setup
Out wide, Nedim Bajrami and Oscar Cortes will have a point to prove this season, and both are expected to feature from the off. Leading the attack, Danilo may be preferred to Cyriel Dessers, who continues to be linked with a move away.
As the curtain rises on Rangers’ season, Martin has a chance to put down a marker — and with the stakes as high as they come, every decision will be scrutinized.
Meanwhile, off the pitch, the Steven Gerrard deal has added another layer of intrigue, as Rangers fans remain closely tuned into developments both on and off the field.
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