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Rangers secured their place in the last 16 of the Europa League last night with a 1-0 victory over Braga. Ryan Kent’s brilliant finish ensured a 4-2 aggregate win over the Portuguese outfit.
The win was a big one for the Light Blues. Braga went into last week’s first leg unbeaten in 10 matches, so for Rangers to beat them twice in a short space of time is good going.
Boss Steven Gerrard sprung something of a surprise in his team selection last night. George Edmundson came in for his first start in the Europa League this season, replacing the out of form Nikola Katic.
The Croatian defender has been in for some stick in recent weeks and Gerrard made the big call to hand the former League Two defender a baptism of fire in Portugal.
Edmundson timed his coming of age in a Rangers shirt to absolute perfection and on this performance, the transfer fee looks like a superb piece of business.
Edmundson won four defensive aerials during the 90 minutes and also made a staggering eight clearances to thwart the danger from the Braga attack.
Competition
The 22-year-old has started twice in the league this season and on this performance, Gerrard should be considering giving him more game time.
Katic was second fiddle for a lot of last season and the 2019/20 campaign was set to be his chance to shine. After a good start though, his form has gone seriously south in recent weeks.
As a young player, he will surely improve. For now, Gerrard has to find a team capable of putting together a run of wins in the Scottish Premiership.
Based on last night, Edmundson is the safest bet alongside Connor Goldson and he should keep his place in the team for the weekend’s game with Hearts.