Like an injury list that left gaffer Clement with no choice but to start a striker who is goalless in five games.
And while Philippe Clement will be loathe to admit it, perhaps it’s best for Rangers’ Premiership title ambitions that they no longer have to concern themselves with the Europa League either after Rafa Silva’s 67th-minute goal sent them spinning out.
Dujon Sterling was ruled out with the hamstring strain he picked up at Easter Road, while Ross McCausland – who also limped off after replacing the utility man in Leith – was only fit enough for a seat on the bench. Wright came in for his first start since being hooked at half-time during last month’s win over St Johnstone. That clash in Perth was Todd Cantwell’s last involvement but after four weeks out, the playmaker was finally available – but also only for a seat on the bench.
John Souttar was spotting danger and cutting it off. Lundstram likewise. And if he didn’t, Diomande did. But the Benfica backline were just as alert as they stepped in time and again to cut off Dessers’ supply. When they didn’t, the frontman teed up Wright but his 25-yarder sailed over. Rangers responded to the soaring volume by pouring forward. However, Benfica’s threat on the counter was made plain as the Eagles swept forward, with Casper Tengstedt firing straight at Butland.
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