Hugh Keevins reacts to Rangers v Benfica draw in ‘burden’ verdict
Hugh Keevins has dismissed the idea that Rangers’ Europa League ties against Benfica could affect their chances of lifting the Scottish Premiership trophy.
Philippe Clement’s men have the potential to pip Old Firm rivals Celtic to the league title this season, but can also progress from the Europa League Round of 16 if they can bypass Benfica.
With just one loss since Clement’s arrival at Ibrox in October, an upcoming hectic schedule, with multiple competitions, will be another challenge for the Belgian to overcome.
Writing for the Sunday Mail (25 February, page 55), Keevins said: “The allegation has been made that the extra burden of European competition will adversely affect Rangers at a domestic level.
“But what if it inspires rather than tires the players? The jury will now retire to consider their verdict.”
Can Philippe Clement lead Rangers past Benfica in the Europa League?
Rangers still have the potential to lift multiple trophies this season, challenging in the Scottish Premiership, Scottish Cup and Europa League.
Having already claimed the Scottish League Cup, beating Aberdeen 1-0 in the final thanks to a James Tavernier goal, Clement’s squad will be hungry for more before the season ends.
After a thrilling, edge-of-your-seat tie against Real Betis, topping Group C with a 3-2 victory over the Spaniards, it would be a shame to see the Gers crash out of Europe against Benfica.
Of course, the Portuguese giants have their own threats and are currently at the top of the Liga Portugal table. But Clement will certainly not be afraid to take them on.
His side have proven themselves over the past few months, overcoming a huge deficit to knock Celtic off the top spot in the league. And with his new January additions of Mohamed Diomande and Oscar Cortes, Rangers must feel like they can defeat anybody right now.
In other Rangers news, the Gers have been warned they risk losing millions if they copy Celtic’s transfer ploy.
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