Following a hard fought two-one win against English Premier League side Blackburn Rovers, Rangers will take on hosts Sydney FC in the Festival of Football International Club Tournament. The match is due to kick off on Wednesday 28th July at 11:15 BST (20:15 local time in Australia).
Walter Smith’s side will take much confidence after winning their opening game in the tournament. Two first half goals, one a header from American Maurice Edu and the other a thundering strike from Kenny Miller, were enough to bring victory to the Ibrox club. It was also encouraging to see a good display from the team as a whole, especially Lafferty, Edu, Davis and youngster Gregg Wylde.
It is likely that Rangers will return to their more commonly used 4-4-2 formations with Alexander in goals, after returning from a knock he picked up when he played in goals for QOS. This was before Rangers left to start their pre-season tour down under. The back four are likely to be Broadfoot, Weir, Webster and Bougherra. There is a possibility that Whittaker may return to first team action if he is able to shake of a minor knock that he picked up in training.
A strong midfield of Edu, Davis, Naismith and Lafferty seems likely as the Gers look to supply plenty of ammunition to their two attacking players in the shape of Kenny Miller and youngster John Fleck.
In other news: Rangers manager Walter Smith has confirmed his interest in signing two South African players in the shape of defender Bongani Khumalo and striker Katlego Mphela. Prelimary talks have already taken place between Chief Executive Martin Bain and the players representatives, with Smith hopeful that the lure of Champions League football will be enough to entice the two world cup stars to sign for the Ibrox men.
Speaking to the Scottish Sun, Smith said “We are seriously considering both of these players. I believe they could fit in well for us. Contact has been made, but we will need to see what happens in the coming weeks.”
C’arn Sydney. Go the sky blues!!!