Ally McCoist shares what Rangers must do v Spurs as Alan Brazil speaks out

Rangers must play their best team against Tottenham on Thursday despite the Scottish League Cup final coming just three days later, Ally McCoist has said.

Speaking on talkSPORT (11 December, 9:26 am), McCoist and Alan Brazil looked ahead to a crucial pair of games for Philippe Clement’s side, with Spurs coming up in Europe before Celtic at Hampden Park.

McCoist was hopeful the Gers could continue their strong form on the continent, but also that Spurs’ inconsistency – beating Manchester City 4-0 before losing to Bournemouth – would be on show at Ibrox on 12 December.

Brazil said: “The big final coming up at the weekend, Rangers have to play Thursday night. So what do Rangers do; play their best side on Thursday against Spurs?”

McCoist replied: “Got to, Alan, got to. As a Rangers supporter, which I am, you’re sitting here praying that it’s the Rangers that have turned up in Europe – against the Spurs that perhaps go to Bournemouth.

“You’ve got a problem if Spurs’ Manchester City form turns up, but it’s a great game to look forward to. Rangers’ form certainly has improved, which has been good to see.”

Rangers face defining week as expectation builds at Ibrox

Clement’s team turning their ailing domestic form around in recent weeks couldn’t have come at a better time, heading into what is undoubtedly their most important period of the season so far.

A three-day turnaround between facing well-heeled Premier League opposition and their biggest rivals in a cup final at Hampden is no mercy for Clement, who won’t be thanking the hectic schedule.

However, the Belgian will know better than most that there are no excuses if the Light Blues fail to put up a good fight in their attempt to retain the League Cup, having won zero Old Firm games in five attempts.

Having beaten Nice 4-1 in Europe and recorded 1-0, 6-0 and 3-0 domestic wins over St. Johnstone, Kilmarnock and Ross County in their last four games though, optimism will be high for the Ibrox faithful.

Spurs arguably represent a free hit for the Bears with Celtic coming up on Sunday, but Clement will know that two strong performances are needed for his side to get anything out of either match.

In other Rangers news, Keith Jackson has mooted a scenario at Ibrox which could land Philippe Clement in “serious trouble”.

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