Rangers game v Fenerbahce ‘at risk of being played at different stadium’
Rangers could see their away clash with Fenerbahce in the Europa League moved to a neutral stadium.
The Gers were paired with the Turkish giants in Friday’s (21 February) Europa League last-16 draw, with the second leg to take place at Ibrox on 12 March.
The away leg takes place a week earlier and is scheduled to be held at Sukru Saracoglu Stadium in Istanbul.
Fenerbahce face possible UEFA probe after fan disorder
However, Fenerbahce could yet face UEFA action after trouble broke out in the stands during their match away at Anderlecht on Thursday (20 February).
The contest was paused for 15 minutes, with reports on social media alledging fights broke out due to Fenerbahce fans in the home sections celebrating Youssef En-Nesyri’s early goal.
If Fenerbahce are found guilty of misconduct by UEFA, it could lead to a ban on away fans attending the game in Istanbul.
And speaking exclusively to Ibrox News, former FIFA referee Keith Hackett believes the fixture could also be moved to a different ground entirely in the worst-case scenario.
“This may be played at a neutral stadium if UEFA take strong against their involvement in the Anderlecht crowd problems,” Hackett said.
Rangers face wait on Fenerbahce fixture decision
Hackett added that there is a “strong possibility” the game will go ahead without fans should UEFA wish to punish Fenerbahce.
That would of course also be punishing Rangers fans, who have done absolutely nothing wrong.
| Match | Score |
| Malmo v Rangers | 0-2 |
| Rangers v Lyon | 1-4 |
| Rangers v FCSB | 4-0 |
| Olympiakos v Rangers | 1-1 |
| OGC Nice v Rangers | 1-4 |
| Rangers v Tottenham | 1-1 |
| Manchester United v Rangers | 2-1 |
| Rangers v Union SG | 2-1 |
This is the way UEFA operate, though, and all Gers supporters can do is await any verdict made by the governing body.
Many Rangers fans will no doubt have already booked their flights and hotels, so it could lead to a safety issue if the game does proceed without fans.
And given how soon the game takes place – in just two weeks’ time – that decision needs to be made ASAP.