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This morning, Portuguese newspapers were talking about the problems that Benfica have in their squad for the Europa League clash against Rangers.

They reported that with eight players ruled out, manager Jorge Jesus will have to call some youngsters to complete the group which is travelling to Glasgow to face Steven Gerrard’s side.

Now a new blow appears. As reported by Record, Benfica midfielder Adel Taarabt has tested positive for Covid-19, and shall miss the game as well.

He’s the fifth Benfica player to test positive. David Tavares and Mile Svilar have already recovered, although the first one is missing Thursday’s game due to injury, and Julian Weigl and Darwin Nunez are currently both in quarantine.

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Taarabt’s absence is a big setback for the Lisbon side, who after many injury issues, now lose a player who had been important for them this season.

Benfica and Rangers currently share the top of Group D with seven points each, and following the 3-3 draw in Lisbon, the Scottish Premiership side seems to have some advantage this time.