Martin Must Make Changes | Predicted 4-3-3 Rangers Lineup To Face Viktoria Plzen | OneFootball

After a dreadful draw against Motherwell, furious Russell Martin publicly criticised some of his players, asking them to ‘drop their ego’. But he also praised a few in his press conference, as Rangers must now turn their attention back to Europe, with Viktoria Plzen set to travel to Ibrox on Tuesday night to lock horns with Martin’s men for the first leg of the third-round Champions League qualifier.

The Czech club overcame a first-leg home defeat against Servette and scripted a stunning 3-1 win in Geneva to knock the Swiss side out in the previous round. They would be high on spirit ahead of another European outing on the road, and the Gers must show some reaction, shaking off their Fir Park shambles.

Predicted 4-3-3 Rangers Lineup To Face Viktoria Plzen

Defence

A fresh start under the new boss has helped Jack Butland redeem his confidence after a below-par 2023-24 season. Although Liam Kelly is waiting in the wings, the Englishman must retain his ‘number 1’ status after a couple of steady performances between the sticks.

GLASGOW, SCOTLAND – JULY 22: Mohamed Diomande of Rangers applauds the fans following the team’s victory in the UEFA Champions League Second Qualifying Round First Leg match between Rangers and Panathinaikos at Ibrox Stadium on July 22, 2025 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)

James Tavernier netted against the Well early into the game. Despite signing Max Aarons on loan from Bournemouth, Martin is sticking with the veteran Englishman down the right. Aarons is expected to keep his place over Jefte as the makeshift left fullback. Also, Nasser Djiga and John Souttar should operate as the central defensive pairing, having impressed so far in the heart of the backline.

Midfield

Joe Rothwell has been roped in on a Bosman to bolster the midfield. His ability to drive the game from deep must help the Light Blues orchestrate the show from the centre of the pitch. Nicolas Raskin and Mohamed Diomande should continue as box-to-box options, but Martin, who seemed unhappy on Saturday evening, needs to work on his tactics as well. Their transitions in midfield were slow and predictable, and the injection of fresh legs could be key, with Lyall Cameron and Connor Barron likely to be introduced as second-half substitutes.

Attack

Besides strategic alteration, the gaffer should think beyond Kieran Dowell, who lacked the impact as a right-winger. Injuries to Thelo Aasgaard and Hamza Igamane have decimated them further; however, teenage ace Findlay Curtis and the summer signing Djeidi Gassama could be deployed together from the flanks until they register Mikey Moore or tie Oliver Antman down from Go Ahead Eagles.

Oscar Cortes might also be involved after coming on as a late substitute at Fir Park. Danilo looked sharp upfront, but he must find the net soon to cement his ‘number 9’ status. Cyriel Dessers, linked over a summer move, has been hailed by Martin for his commitment and dedication. The veteran Nigerian could still ply his trade elsewhere later this month, but his professionalism and poaching traits should see him get the nod over the Brazilian for this midweek encounter.