Rangers expand gulf over Celtic as Scotland’s elite European side
Rangers are still able to boast a European gulf over Old Firm rivals Celtic despite recent disappointment in domestic settings.
Though Philippe Clement looked to be guiding the Gers to just their second Scottish Premiership title in the last decade last season, Brendan Rodgers’ men were able to take advantage of a slip in form to clinch the trophy.
The Light Blues have claimed just one victory against their rivals from the last 12 meetings in all competitions, with Graeme Souness admitting there is a “gulf” between the two sides [talkSPORT].
While many fans will admit that a lot of work and focus will need to go into battling the Hoops next term on the domestic front, an update in UEFA rankings would suggest that Rangers have expanded the gulf between the two sides in Europe in their favour, rather than the other way around.
UEFA confirmed [12 July] that the Gers, due to their performances in the Europa League last term, stand tall in 28th place while Celtic flounder in 69th between Leicester City and Lyon.
Rangers expand gulf over Old Firm rivals Celtic in new UEFA rankings
Although the Hoops were able to play their football in the Champions League, it appears that the club are making no headway when it comes to European competition, crashing out as the bottom team in Group E in consecutive seasons.
Philippe Clement’s side, on the other hand, experienced an exciting journey in the Europa League, topping a group containing Real Betis, Sparta Prague and Aris Limassol before setting up an encounter with Benfica.
The Gers were unable to defeat the Portuguese giants but this run to the knockouts, while also factoring in the recent run all the way to the final, shows just how established the Gers are on the continent.
Clement has the chance to lead Rangers to the Champions League through the qualification process this season, which could further widen the gap between themselves and Celtic in the European standings if they can pull off a magical run to the second stage.
In other Rangers news, alarm bells are ringing amid “major” Ibrox issues.
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