Rangers return to UEFA Europa League action tonight as Italian Serie A side AS Roma travel to Ibrox, with both teams needing a victory to return themselves into the qualification picture.
To get an insight into the mood in the Italian capital, Inside Ibrox site expert Jack Cranmer spoke to Karlo, admin of Roma fan page R6ma, who offered his perspective on Roma’s form, key dangers, tactical approach and expectations heading into the match.
“A refreshing start” domestically – but Europe is proving a stretch
Roma have started strongly in Serie A and have been difficult to break down under new head coach Gian Piero Gasperini.
Karlo said: “It’s been a refreshing start to the Serie A campaign. Only four goals conceded in the first ten games is encouraging.
“The run of form from [the end of] last season has been carried forward.”
However, Karlo admitted that balancing domestic football with European commitments has been more challenging.
He explained: “Europe has been a mixed bag.
A win against Nice but a surprising loss at home to Viktoria Plzeň.
“The squad depth isn’t quite there yet to fully compete in both competitions.”
Supporters are encouraged
Roma supporters are generally positive, not just because of results, but because of what they value culturally.
“Roma fans judge the grinta - the grit,” Karlo explained.
“Do you fight for the shirt? Right now, they definitely are and that’s what makes supporters happy.”
Major injury concern: Dybala missing
Roma travel to Glasgow without their standout attacker.
When asked about injury issues heading into the tie Karlo said: “Dybala is the big one. He’s out for at least a month. He’s our talisman.
“Losing him shifts the entire dynamic. Our strikers haven’t delivered this season, so it’s a big gap to fill.”
Who Rangers must watch out for?
Despite missing Dybala, Roma still have dangerous outlets.
“[Matías] Soule will be key, he plays in the same spaces Dybala does and will be expected to create chances.
“And [Manu] Kone in midfield is world class. His physical presence and influence could be decisive.”
Gasperini’s tactical approach?
Interestingly, Gasperini has not imposed his trademark high-risk style fully yet.
Karlo told us: “Roma have been more defensive than expected. It’s closer to Mourinho’s approach right now.
“Last game vs Milan we saw glimpses of the old Gasperini high press and 3-5-2 wing play, but without the goals.”
Karlo believes this is down to practical squad limitations, particularly the lack of a reliable No.9, and expects Roma to adjust again based on the environment at Ibrox.
Match expectations?
Karlo predicts a tight, tactical match.
He said: “I’m expecting a low-scoring affair.
“Our lack of finishing doesn’t give me hope for a high-scoring game. Rangers away is one of the toughest atmospheres in Europe.
“But strangely, Roma’s away record has been better than their home record this season. So, I’m hopeful we can take something.”
With both clubs needing points, a sold-out Ibrox under the lights and two sides fighting for European form, tonight has all the makings of a tense and high-stakes contest.