Daniel Lewis

Wed 29 November 2023 14:40, UK

Sky Sports reporter Luke Shanley has explained how Rangers could set up an “intriguing” conclusion to their Europa League group campaign.

The Gers host Aris Limassol in their penultimate Group C fixture on Thursday (30 November) knowing victory will send them through.

There are many other various permutations, however, as Philippe Clement’s men could still finish first, second, third or fourth.

Speaking on Sky Sports News from the Auchenhowie training base [29 November, 12:20], Shanley said: “Rangers will qualify if they beat Aris Limassol, or if they draw and Sparta Prague fail to beat Real Betis.

“If Rangers draw and Betis win, then Betis win the group. Rangers will be second and face a play-off round.

“But of course they will want to win and take it to the last game, away to Betis in Seville. That would be a very intriguing finish.”

Plenty of permutations

The task for Rangers is simple enough: Beat Aris at Ibrox – something they were unable to do in Cyprus – and hope for a positive update from the game between Sparta Prague and Real Betis.

In an ideal world, the Gers will be assured of a play-off spot at best come the end of Thursday (30 November), and then it may well be a straight shoot-out for top spot.

Finishing top would clear up the fixture list slightly, but that remains a very tough ask as it requires a helping hand from Sparta and a positive result in Seville next month.

The worst-case scenario, of course, is losing to Aris on home soil and then it really would be all to play for in terms of second place.

Clement will no doubt name his strongest possible side for the visit of the Cypriot outfit, who pulled off a surprise 2-1 win in October’s reverse fixture.

A lot has changed at Rangers since then – not least Clement now being in charge – and this game provides a chance to show just how far we have come.

In other Rangers news, Clement must ensure a first-team regular is not picked against Aris after his actions last week.