Rangers boss Steven Gerrard has called on his players to "express themselves" and show their intent from the off in Moscow.

The Light Blues face Spartak Moscow on Thursday as they look to hold onto top spot in their Europa League group.

The first meeting between the two sides a fortnight ago ended in a stalemate, with Rangers passing up a chance to clinch victory in the dying moments.

Spartak boss Raul Riancho has promised a more attacking approach from his side on their own patch for what he deems a "must-win" game.

Gerrard, however, said his focus is on his team stamping their authority from the off.

He said: "The most important thing is what we do, that the players carry out the game plan and that we come here and express ourselves.

"We don't want to play in a shell like the first 45 minutes in Villarreal.

"We want to start strong and really show Spartak our intent on the night is to come here and get a good result."

Rangers have appealed against Daniel Candeias' controversial booking that saw the Portuguese winger sent off during the win over St Mirren.

Gerrard said: "The only thing I can say is I'm aware there is an appeal going on.

"We're hoping it's successful because we feel like the player has been hard done by and is potentially going to miss a game he shouldn't be missing.

"We believe he shouldn't have got a second yellow on the day."