Rangers have a striker dilemma for Thursday’s crucial Conference League Playoff decider against Jablonec.
Stick with Ryan Naderi for consistency, despite a limited overall return, or twist with the re-introduction of Lawrence Shankland from the start of the game?
It’s an interesting poser for Derek McInnes, who is likely to stick with the 4-3-3 approach adopted in recent weeks.
If that remains, it favours Naderi, who can link better as the sole striker, compared to the Scotsman who thrives when playing deeper, off a partner.
Naderi or Shankland Rangers striker decision for McInnes
Some will say ‘what about Bojan Miovski?’
The North Macedonian striker is obviously still in the squad, but it’s clear from the season so far that he is the fourth-choice option for McInnes.
That may be unfair to an extent, but the move from Girona just hasn’t worked out and it doesn’t look like it’s going to.
That is another sub-plot to monitor in the final days of the Scottish window, as player and club may look to do business. You would think that Miovski won’t be happy with a bit-part-role and limited game time.
For now and Jabonec up next, the starter is most likely to be Naderi, Shankland or both.
Why Naderi is likely to continue
Ryan Naderi scored the only goal of the game in last week’s first leg victory over the Czech side.
It wasn’t a great performance individually and collectively, but once again, there was positivity in the midfield for Rangers.
The three-man unit provides more control and a better base for getting forward and launching attacks, while bringing the best out of the wingers.
Naderi has also scored in the last two games, so he should fancy his chances of netting in three consecutive games.
The dilemma is Derek McInnes’ to answer, but it would appear that Ryan Naderi is in line to start as Rangers striker against Jablonec.
