‘Very, very difficult’ – Kris Boyd issues Europa League warning to Rangers ahead of Gala clash
Kris Boyd has said that Rangers face a “very difficult” game against Galatasaray, but admits that being on the back foot could suit the Gers.
The former Ibrox striker has said that even though the Turkish side “weren’t great” last season, they will still pose a great threat to his former club when the two sides meet in Glasgow on Thursday.
The winner of the clash will progress to the group stage of the Europa League, and with so much on the line for both teams, Boyd has warned the Gers need to be “patient” if they want to get anything out of the game.
Speaking to on Sky Sports’ Scottish Football Podcast, Boyd said: “Galatasaray last season, they weren’t great, finishing sixth.
“But they’ve managed to get few decent recruits in. They’ve obviously still got Radamel Falcao and Arda Turan, who are well-known household names around Europe. Ryan Babel is there as well.
“I think Rangers will need to be very patient on Thursday night.
“It’s the type of game that suits Rangers though, sitting in, as long as they defend well with the pace they’ve got. We’ve seen Jordan Jones after his performance at the weekend, I’m sure Steven will have a few decisions to make come Thursday, but it’s going to be a very, very difficult game.”
How important is it that Rangers win this one?
In a word, very.
Rangers are looking to advance to the Europa League group stage for the third season in a row, and Steven Gerrard himself has admitted that progression on Thursday could give the club a welcome financial boost ahead of the transfer window closing on October 5th.
Galatasaray are no pushovers though, and are themselves a club who have started the season unbeaten.
Rangers will surely take a lot of confidence into the game, largely due to their outstanding record so far this season in Europe.
The Gers have won both of their games, scoring nine and conceding none.
Galatasaray are a slightly higher calibre of opposition, but there are still reasons to be optimistic.
In other Rangers news, ‘Nerves of steel’ – Former teammate blown away by ‘brave’ Rangers mainstay ahead of clash v Gala.