Rangers boss Michael Beale is relishing their novelty clash against Patrick Thistle in the fifth round of the Scottish Cup. This Saturday, Rangers face the fourth-placed Jaguars in the Championship instead of the Premiership’s leaders Celtic. Beale is enjoying the change from the routine as he attempts to lead Rangers one step closer to keeping the trophy they won under former manager Giovanni van Bronckhorst last season.
“Actually, it’s rather lovely. You play the divisional opponents at least three times and occasionally four times, and if you draw them in the cup as well, it might seem a bit like Groundhog [Day] because you know each other so well. This can occasionally result in stale or very stuffy games,” Rangers boss Michael Beale said. “It is enjoyable to compete against a team outside of our league while also being aware that they have nothing to lose by traveling to Ibrox this weekend. Ian McCall will undoubtedly convey that to his team. It will be an exciting game because the side has a lot of Premiership experience. They are also coming to 2,500 fans, which demonstrates the size of their fanbase. Making sure that we honor the significance that it has for us as Rangers can only benefit us.”
As he recovered fully from a leg injury, Colak has started the last four games off the bench. Beale has previously suggested teaming Croatian striker Alfredo Morelos with Colombian Alfredo Morelos, but he will defer making that choice until later. John Lundstram, who was substituted early in the 2-1 victory over Ross County last Saturday, will miss the cup match, but Beale is pleased with the midfielder’s ankle injury’s prognosis given that the Scottish League Cup final against Celtic is just over two weeks away.
“Colak will play, according to the latest team news. We will determine closer to the game whether he plays with Morelos or not,” he added. “We are hopeful John will be back for the Livingston game, so we received some positive news on that front. John won’t be available this weekend. He rolled his ankle as he attempted to block a shot.”
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