A number of Rangers fans have taken to social media to rage over the decision not to start young talent Glenn Middleton for the clash against FK Shkupi on Tuesday evening.
The Light Blues confirmed their starting XI via their official Twitter account, which confirmed that Gerrard had chosen to make just one change from the first leg.
? Your #RangersFC team for tonight's @EuropaLeague match. pic.twitter.com/8I2jTliLBU
— Rangers Football Club (@RangersFC) July 17, 2018
Scott Arfield, injured in the 2-0 win at Ibrox last week, dropped out of the side to be replaced by Ryan Jack, as the Gers look to progress to the next qualifying round.
However, some of the Rangers faithful were less than happy to see former Norwich youngster Middleton left on the bench after he impressed during his cameo in the first leg, with a handful suggesting Josh Windass should be making way for the winger.
This is Futbol has rounded up a selection of the supporters’ messages on Twitter:
https://twitter.com/RobertS96506689/status/1019234968202088449
How do you inspire players like Middleton to win their place if he plays well then doesnt start. Got to have competition to improve standards
— stuart ednie (@Skednie) July 17, 2018
https://twitter.com/rangers18725/status/1019234776891486214
@Glenn_M22 needs to start
— jake (@JAndrewwatt) July 17, 2018
Windass ? https://t.co/cIxbOLDoAA
— Andy (@Andyyy__M) July 17, 2018
Would have liked to see Middleton start today
— Kieren (@RonTLC) July 17, 2018
https://twitter.com/xCDMM/status/1019234935134150656
https://twitter.com/WelshyG86/status/1019235460386836480
Why has Gerrard not dropped Windass for Middleton??
— B A R Z O (@RossBarr01) July 17, 2018
Opinion
It is understandable as to why the Rangers fans are so desperate to see Middleton handed a start by Gerrard, for he looked a real game changer during the first leg. Windass and the rest of the Gers attack did look to be lacking the cutting edge needed to break down the Macedonians, but Middleton’s arrival sparked everyone into life. His no fear attitude took the game to the opposition and was crucial in getting that all important second goal. Still, he has the chance to prove himself from the bench if called upon, and if he continues to dazzle in his cameos, it will not be long until he gets the start the fans are all clamouring for.