Pundit tells Philippe Clement to axe Rangers defender v Lyon in new Kasanwirjo verdict

Alan Hutton has told Philippe Clement to axe Robin Propper and start Neraysho Kasanwirjo for Rangers’ Europa League clash with Lyon.

The Light Blues welcome the French club to Ibrox for their second game of the Europa League league stage on Thursday (3 October) having won their last four matches in all competitions.

While Kasanwirjo was left out of the XI for the clash with Hibernian last time out, Premier Sports pundit Hutton believes he earned a start with his display against Malmo and thinks Propper should be the man to drop out.

Speaking on The Scottish Football Social Club (30 September) he said: “Kasanwirjo, I thought looked really good.

“Really strong, defensively he’ll drive forwards, he’s good on the ball. I would see him more as a centre-half me.”

Darrell Currie then asked: “Who are you dropping then because [John] Souttar’s played well?”

Hutton replied: “Propper possibly. I think he’s a guy who’s done well, he’s had his moments. I think you need competition within there and that’s what he’s there to give you.”

What has happened to Robin Propper at Rangers and Ibrox?

Clement certainly has a bit of a selection headache on his hands at Ibrox and while it won’t be easy for the Gers boss to pick a starting XI on Thursday, it is an excellent problem for the manager to have.

The competition for places, particularly in defence, is probably the most intense that it has been in Clement’s time in charge at Ibrox and while he won’t be able to keep everyone happy, it is good to have options as a manager.

Jefte’s form this season has ensured that he is a guaranteed starter at left-back while Souttar and James Tavernier will play when fit. That means the only area Kasanwirjo can force himself into is Propper’s position.

Kasanwirjo’s display against Malmo last time out in Europe was excellent. The versatile defender definitely deserves another start, but Clement also cannot afford to leave Jefte out now that his suspension is served.

Perhaps Hutton is right and the Gers boss will have to be brave enough to drop Propper.

In other Rangers news, Clement has been backed to make a new Bailey Rice call in Glasgow after recent developments

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