Graeme Souness: Europa League glory will make Rangers attractive transfer destination
Graeme Souness believes Rangers success in Europe is helping Scottish football, but admits he is “selfish” in being more concerned with the club benefiting.
Giovanni van Bronckhorst takes his side to Serbia for the second leg of the Europa League last-16 tie against Red Star Belgrade this week, holding a 3-0 lead from the win at Ibrox.
After seeing off tournament favourites Borussia Dortmund in the previous round with a complete performance across two legs, thoughts are turning to Gers going all the way, and Ibrox legend Souness feels the feat would send out a major message.
The former player-manager said, via the Daily Record: “It would be enormous [to lift the trophy].
“In England and further afield, the only game that resonates is the Old Firm derby so Rangers doing as well as they have done in Europe makes everyone sit up and take notice – and that can only be good for all of Scottish football.
“It’s selfish talking about Rangers being a more attractive club when it comes to them signing players – although they’re still the priority, as far as I’m concerned – but it should help other Scottish clubs as well.”
Marching on
The job against Dejan Stankovic’s side is not done yet, and the opponents tomorrow (17 March) proved they carry a threat in the last meeting.
Three tight offsides, a saved penalty, and a long-range shot off the bar went against the visitors in Glasgow.
But the way the Light Blues have raised their game for the knockout ties in Europe this season has been highly impressive.
The pattern of the previous three outings in the competition has started to suggest this team might have destiny on its side.
The occasion of playing under the lights on the European stage is clearly bringing out the best in these players, and if that form continues there is no reason to say winning the whole thing is beyond them.
The likes of Barcelona are still in the draw, but the attacking displays van Bronckhorst has got out of his men will threaten anyone.
The signing of Aaron Ramsey in January, for all he has struggled to make an impact so far, shows the draw of the club, and every big Europa League performance is raising that profile further.
Souness will be like many Bears fans in having his eye on long-term success coming from this impressive run.
In other Rangers news, one prominent Celtic fan fears the late-season impact of Welsh star Ramsey.