Rangers Predicted XI to Face Club Brugge After Training Ground Latest as Martin Gears Up for First Real Test
Rangers are preparing for a stern pre-season test as they gear up to face Belgian giants Club Brugge, and signs from the training ground suggest manager Russell Martin is close to settling on his first-choice XI ahead of the new campaign.
Following a flurry of summer arrivals, including Thelo Aasgaard, Jefte, and Joe Rothwell, Martin appears set to field a strong lineup in what will be Rangers’ most challenging friendly yet. The Ibrox side have been intensifying training sessions at Auchenhowie, and the latest drills offer a glimpse into the tactical structure Martin intends to deploy against Brugge.
Here’s the predicted Rangers XI based on recent training ground developments:
Goalkeeper – Jack Butland
No surprises between the sticks as Jack Butland retains his role as the undisputed No.1. The Englishman has been a calming presence for the Gers and will be vital in organizing the backline against a technically gifted Brugge side.
Defence – James Tavernier, Ben Davies, Connor Goldson, Jefte*
Club captain James Tavernier remains a guaranteed starter at right-back. On the left, new Brazilian signing Jefte is set to make his first start in front of the Ibrox faithful after impressing in training with his energy and attacking prowess. Ben Davies is tipped to marshal the defence centrally, while there’s a late decision to be made on Connor Goldson, who has been in light training. Should Goldson not be ready, an alternative such as John Souttar may be called upon.
Midfield – Nico Raskin, Joe Rothwell, Dujon Sterling (diamonded)
Raskin has shown leadership in midfield and will likely start at the base of a diamond formation, flanked by the ever-energetic Joe Rothwell. Interestingly, Dujon Sterling may be given a more advanced, tucked-in midfield role – part of a diamond system Martin has been experimenting with during closed sessions.
Attack – Thelo Aasgaard, Danilo, Oscar Cortes
Summer signing Thelo Aasgaard is expected to be unleashed in the No.10 role. His ability to thread passes and link midfield to attack has been a highlight of training, and Martin may give him a chance to prove himself against European opposition. Danilo, now back to full fitness, leads the line alongside Oscar Cortes, who will likely operate from the left but cut inside frequently to combine with Aasgaard and Tavernier.
Subs and Options
Ross McCausland, Tom Lawrence, and Ridvan Yilmaz are all pushing for minutes but may begin on the bench. The same goes for John Lundstram, who is easing his way back into full match sharpness.
This clash will provide Russell Martin with his first real opportunity to assess how well his squad is adapting to his tactical philosophy. With Brugge offering a far sterner challenge than previous opponents, the match will be a key marker of Rangers’ readiness ahead of their UEFA Champions League qualifiers and the looming Scottish Premiership opener.
The Gers are determined to lay down a marker, and if training is anything to go by, Martin is shaping a vibrant, flexible squad capable of exciting fans in the season ahead.
