Rangers have traveled to Old Trafford for a crucial Europa League clash against Manchester United, with Philippe Clement vowing to steer clear of a defensive approach reminiscent of Walter Smith’s tactics from their last visit.
The Ibrox side faces a high-stakes encounter against Ruben Amorim’s struggling United team on Thursday night. A win would be pivotal in bolstering their chances of reaching the Europa League’s last 16.
To achieve this, Rangers will need to break a long-standing trend, as their only competitive win on English soil came in the 1992 ‘Battle of Britain’ against Leeds United. Their most recent visit to Old Trafford in 2010 saw Sir Alex Ferguson jokingly suggest that Smith’s five-man defense deserved a “fine.”
Clement, however, is focused on a more assertive game plan. Set to reintroduce Jack Butland to the starting lineup, he emphasized his commitment to attacking football:
“We have our game plan as always. I’ve never been one to park the bus and hope for a lucky break. We will play to our strengths while respecting Manchester United’s qualities, just as we’ve done in previous European games.”
Ruben Amorim, tasked with stabilizing United earlier in the season, is under mounting pressure amid a challenging spell. Clement, though, remains undeterred by the surrounding noise and is optimistic about Rangers’ chances:
“We know what to expect. The focus is on ourselves, not the noise around us. The team has improved significantly over the past months, and now it’s time to show that by making history. It’s been a long time since Rangers won in England, and tomorrow, we’ll give it everything we’ve got.”
Jack Butland, now fit after a leg injury, is expected to return in goal. Clement expressed confidence in his options, praising Liam Kelly for his performances during Butland’s absence.
Tom Lawrence has also been cleared to play following a three-month layoff, but Rangers remain without several key players. Mohamed Diomande is suspended, while Danilo, Ianis Hagi, Clinton Nsiala, and new signing Rafa Fernandes are sidelined. Injuries also rule out John Souttar, Dujon Sterling, Nana Kasanwirjo, and Oscar Cortes.
Despite the absences, Clement is focused on unity and resilience:
“We’re missing about eight players who could start tomorrow due to injuries, suspensions, and the European squad list. But this team has been digging deep and delivering results in tough situations over the past months. We’ll do the same tomorrow.”
