Oli McBurnie messages Aarons after Rangers scenes in Champions League
Max Aarons starred as Rangers beat Panathinaikos in the first leg of their Champions League qualifier.
The 25-year-old was brought in from Bournemouth on a season-long loan deal as Russell Martin‘s first signing of the summer.
He started at left-back and was brilliant on both sides of the ball as the Gers secured a comfortable 2-0 victory at Ibrox on Tuesday.
They will head to Athens (30 July) full of confidence after the result, and Aarons will likely start again.
McBurnie sends Aarons message after Rangers win
It looks like Aarons will be a key part of Martin’s side going forward, as he was handed a start on the left despite Jefte being on the bench.
Aarons took to Instagram (23 July) to send a message to supporters after the win, saying: “First one at Ibrox, incredible atmosphere. Big win to take to Athens.”
McBurnie reacted by liking the post and commenting with three clapping emojis.
Rangers need to finish the job
The Gers need to ensure that they are not complacent, and they are at their best when they head to Greece for the return leg.
They have been handed a tie against Viktoria Plzen or Servette in the third qualifying round if they progress, and should fancy their chances against that opposition.
The draw for the Europa League is actually harder for the Gers; they would face Beşiktaş or Shakhtar Donetsk if they lose in Greece, who are both a huge threat compared.
It would be a game-changer for the Light Blues if they were to make it into the league phase of Europe’s premier competition.
The new majority owners, the 49ers Enterprises group and Andrew Cavenagh, have already started the rebuild in Govan, but the increase in revenue if they qualify would be a major boost.
It may also help the Bears to keep hold of their best players, the likes of Hamza Igamane and Cyriel Dessers, who are attracting significant interest from the continent.
Martin and Aarons have gotten off to the perfect start; they must continue that when they return to competitive action next week.
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