Boyd claims Celtic’s European record makes Rangers look even better
Kris Boyd claims you only have to look at Celtic to appreciate how impressive Rangers’ run in Europe is after they reached the last 16 of the Europa League.
The Gers secured progression with a 5-2 win over Antwerp as goals from Alfredo Morelos, Nathan Patterson, Ryan Kent, Borna Barisic and Cedric Itten blew the Belgians away.
Boydie was speaking on the Sky Sports Scottish Football podcast when he made the comparison between Rangers and Celtic’s European form in recent years.
He said, “It has been [an achievement]. You only have to look at Celtic who have struggled to make inward strides in Europe.
“Rangers have managed to do that for the second year in a row. They’re into the last 16. I don’t think Royal Antwerp were the best of opposition.
“Over the two legs, Steven Gerrard will be delighted.”
While Boyd does enjoy winding up Celtic fans, he does have a very good point here as progression in Europe isn’t as easy as we have made it look.
Celtic failed to make the group stage of the Champions League this season before then being booted out of the Europa League in the groups.
In the past two seasons, we have made it through to the last 16 of the Europa League and faced some excellent European sides.
While this was no doubt a cheeky dig at Celtic, Boyd’s point is absolutely correct as it shows how impressive Rangers have been because Celtic can’t match us at home or abroad.
We will focus on ourselves when it comes to European success this year as we look to improve on last season’s showing.
But to look around and see Celtic nowhere near us does put yet another positive spin on our season.
In other Rangers news, Antwerp have sent a classy message to one Gers star.