Rangers squad unveiled as John Lundstram dilemma may have an answer amid evident Nicolas Raskin truth.
Rangers have the chance to win two cups and Philippe Clement’s first Scottish Cup Final victory over Celtic. And the name on every fan’s lips heading into the game is John Lundstram. Any involvement in the Final appears to be his final appearance for Rangers, with Trabzonspor reportedly close to signing him when his contract expires.
However, after being sent off against Celtic in his previous appearance for the Light Blues, some fans have asked for Clement to leave Lundstram on the periphery at Hampden. The manager appeared to give a hint that the Scouser would be returning in the build-up to the game, claiming that he would not listen to the opinions of the fans when picking his starting lineup. He said, “I will never make decisions based on what fans are thinking at the time. “Because those are emotions.”
And while he stated it would be ‘impossible’ for Ryan Jack to start at the national stadium, Nicolas Raskin would be the obvious choice if Lundstram misses out. However, Clement has previously shown his faith in the Englishman over Raskin.
The Belgian U21 international has struggled to secure a starting berth in the Clement era, making only three league appearances in 2024 before Lundstram’s red card at Celtic Park, and being substituted at half-time in two of those games. Raskin’s primary role this season has been to come off the bench for 10-minute cameos, replacing Lundstram.
The Belgian manager appears to prefer the out-of-contract player to the 23-year-old and may stick with him. Clement has kept his injury status under wraps in the lead-up to the encounter. Despite his long-term absence due to injury, he has not ruled out Abdallah Sima, Leon Balogun, or Borna Barisic.
He did offer an update on Ridvan Yilmaz – but appeared to hint the left-back could still make the Mount Florida showdown. Earlier this week he said the Turkish international had “tears in his eyes” when confessing an injury relapse but “we are going to see if we get him fit for this cup final”.
With crucial players like Connor Goldson and John Souttar almost certainly missing the finale, youngsters Leon King and Robbie Fraser are expected to be called up for the blockbuster. However, there are tremendous calls for the boss all across the park. Todd Cantwell did not even make it off the bench in Celtic’s final Premiership match of the season, but he may be chosen over Tom Lawrence after the Welsh international made minimal effect at Celtic Park. Despite a dismal loan spell, Fabio Silva appears to be returning to the left wing, while who will start on the right remains to be decided.
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