It was a frustrating night for Rangers as they hosted Bayer Leverkusen in the UEFA Europa League. The in-form German outfit took the lead through a Kai Havertz penalty in the 37th minute. Charles Aranguiz extended the visitors’ lead to two in the 67th minute, prompting Steven Gerrard to make a tactical change, as he took off Glen Kamara and brought on Ianis Hagi.
The game ended 3-1 to Leverkusen, providing the German side with a sizeable lead heading into the second leg at the BayArena. However, this didn’t stop fans from praising the obvious impact that Hagi had on the game following his introduction.
During the game, the fans praised Hagi’s influence in the middle of the park, insisting that he must start from central areas going forward.
Hagi playing in the middle is so much more effective than out wide
— Andrew waugh (@andrewwaugh93) March 12, 2020
Hagi’s got to be starting centre mid every game. The only guy in the team that can make something happen.
— John (@JStoo294) March 12, 2020
I think if Hagi had started the game, he would’ve had a lot more service and more chances to score.
— (@Eddi55rfc) March 12, 2020
Play him Sunday, along with Kamberi
— The Queens 11 (@Ryan74218089) March 12, 2020
This is why Hagi should play in the middle @RangersFC
— Jordan (@_J1872) March 12, 2020
Can’t really complain at that, Leverkusen just a class apart! Decent 2nd half from Rangers though. Would have started Hagi too, big game player. Kamberi should start Sunday too #WATP
— Richie McNicöl (@McNicol94) March 12, 2020
Do you think Rangers would have won if Hagi started?
Yes
No
Another fan admits that Hagi looks like a player who is up for playing in big European games. One thinks the club should do everything they can to sign the Romanian. He is currently on loan from Genk until the end of the season.
Hagi is a European player for sure
— Nacho Man (@nachoman18721) March 12, 2020
Get Hagi signed btw.
— Rangers Bantz (@RangersBanter17) March 12, 2020
What do we think?
Fans will be frustrated that their team lost the first leg. However, the introduction of Hagi in the 68th minute could at least give them a bit of hope for upcoming matches. Fans will almost surely be turning their attention towards the Old Firm clash against Celtic at the weekend.