Rangers manager Steven Gerrard has named his starting line-up for tonight’s clash away to Spanish outfit Villarreal in the opening game of Group G in the UEFA Europa League.
In something of a surprise, Gerrard has opted to drop Nikola Katic for the encounter, instead turning to new loan signing Joe Worrall to partner the ever reliable Connor Goldson in defence.
Katic and Goldson have enjoyed a productive summer and have produced some excellent performances together away from home in Europe already, but the manager clearly feels that Worrall can add something to what will be a defensive performance.
It’s unknown whether the Croatian youngster is carrying a knock that would rule out his involvement.
Fans are disappointed not to see him in the line-up, even if it is a chance to see the Nottingham Forest loanee in action for the first time this season.
These fans took to Twitter to share their thoughts on it all…
Katic on the bench. Very strange call. Can only assume he's carrying a knock.
— I Paterson (@ipaterson5) September 20, 2018
Surprised Katic is on the bench. Personally think he's been the most consistent performer at CB since the start of the season albeit both him & Goldson have been solid.
— Stewart Hogarth (@HogeyBear92) September 20, 2018
Worrall in for Katic who's on the bench. Surely just precautionary. If not it's pretty ballsy of Gerrard to play a different centre back partnership away at Villarreal
— Ryan (@rfcryan1995) September 20, 2018
Y have we dropped Katic I am confusion https://t.co/llkKzxT2iE
— chloe (@chloe72_) September 20, 2018
https://twitter.com/robertmcnaught/status/1042803074941759490
https://twitter.com/AMcKellar89/status/1042802832007725056
Don't understand the katic decision
— Stephen Simpson (@Simmi1990) September 20, 2018
I had a feeling Gerrard might prefer Worrall over Katic in the longer term, but surprised he’s made the change in such a big game.
— Iain Duff (@iainduff) September 20, 2018
Is Katic injured? Strange if hes not a dont get it 🤷🏻♂️
— Dylan McKinnon (@DylanM1873) September 20, 2018
What are your thoughts on the decision to drop Nikola Katic? Have your say in the comments below…