Football Analyst Proposes Direct Strategy for Rangers’ Match Against Olympiakos in Athens

In September, Ross McCausland scored during Rangers’ 2-0 Europa League away victory against Malmo. The question of whether a long-ball strategy offers Rangers their optimal chance to defeat Olympiakos in Athens this evening has been raised, with football analyst and Rangers supporter John Walker endorsing this view. On the BBC’s Scottish football podcast, Walker presented his argument, stating: “We’ve seen it in Malmo [Rangers’ 2-0 away win], teams that have a bit more of identity, a bit more style, who want to play a bit more football against us, can come a little bit unstuck.” He continued, “Our kind of, I think the Olympiakos coach called it ‘vertical play’, I would call it long ball. But direct, long-ball play may actually benefit us in Europe.” This approach is particularly relevant, according to Walker, given the absence of players such as Tom Lawrence, and his suspicion that [Mohamed] Diomande will fill that position. He noted that the combination of Diomande, [Vaclav] Cerny, and [Nedim] Bajrami provides significant pace for counter-attacks. Walker concluded, expressing his belief that the Olympiakos fixture could present a favorable opportunity for Rangers, and a match where he would anticipate them securing a positive outcome. He suggested that this scenario allows Philippe Clement’s tactical approach to be fully realized, potentially causing difficulties for opposing teams. In the Greek capital, Walker anticipates Dujon Sterling will be chosen to start over captain James Tavernier, as Rangers aim for their third victory in their initial four Europa League fixtures. He further commented: “I think the style of plays affected Tavernier a bit because it’s more direct and he definitely doesn’t have the pace to get up and down 90 yards.” Walker observed: “There was a massive improvement when Sterling came on on Sunday at right-back. Pace, athleticism, willingness just to run off and give Cerny the line himself. I would be very surprised if Sterling doesn’t start tonight.” Sandi Toksvig will be accompanied by Gyles Brandreth, Lulu, Emmanuel Sonubi, and Alan Davies. Opportunities are available to sing along to tracks by Queen, Taylor Swift, Bon Jovi, Katy Perry, and others. Ben Fogle and Kate Humble are set to return for the festivities at Longleat Safari Park. Discussions cover topics ranging from microplastics in our air, soil, and waterways, to the extent of food waste observed at this time of year. © 2024 BBC. The British Broadcasting Corporation disclaims responsibility for the content of external sites. Further information regarding our approach to external linking is accessible.