Rangers fans stunned by big omission from starting XI

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Rangers face Sparta Prague in the Europa League away from home on Thursday – and fans are shocked by the omission of Alfredo Morelos.

The Gers suffered defeat in their opening Europa League group game match against French giants Lyon. Thursday night’s fixture, then, is crucial.

Steven Gerrard’s side need to get some points on the board but their preparations were knocked when Connor Goldson was left out of the side.

Injury has prevented the big defender from playing, normally so reliably fit at the heart of the Rangers defence. Calvin Bassey has replaced him.

Bassey, called-up to the Nigeria squad, partners Leon Balogun with James Tavernier and Borna Barisic on the flanks – in front of Allan McGregor.

Meanwhile, Gerrard has opted to use new signing Juninho Bacuna in the middle of the park alongside reliable duo Steven Davis and Glen Kamara.

But the real shock is in attack. Ryan Kent is injured, but Gerrard leaves Morelos on the bench. Fashion Sakala, Kemar Roofe and Joe Aribo start.

Morelos benched: Rangers fans have their say ahead of Sparta clash

It is a strange one. When Morelos is not available, Rangers struggle without his physical presence in the final third. But he is struggling for consistency.

The 25-year-old has just four goals in 12 appearances this season, returning to Rangers late after representing Colombia in the Copa America.

Rangers fans have reacted on Twitter to the news that the ex-HJK Helsinki man is not starting – and many cannot understand the absence of Morelos.