Rangers face ‘perilous’ situation as they seek major Ibrox cash boost
Rangers have enjoyed a largely positive week as they continue to transition into the Russell Martin era.
The Gers came from two goals down to rescue a draw in their latest friendly against Middlesbrough on Saturday (26 July), in what was their final pre-season test before the return of Premiership action next weekend.
They also had a memorable night in midweek at Ibrox, when goals from Findlay Curtis and Djeidi Gassama saw Rangers build a crucial lead against Panathinaikos in their Champions League qualifier.
The important assignments keep on coming for Martin at the moment, and he faces another big week ahead, with the competitive domestic action firmly on the horizon.
Rangers have ‘perilous’ Panathinaikos situation
Martin and Co. will be delighted with the advantage that Rangers have secured to take with them to Athens for the return leg on Wednesday night (30 July).
However, their first-half performance left a lot to be desired as they struggled to settle into the game, and they could have easily found themselves behind at the break were it not for some strong saves from Jack Butland.
It won’t be an easy task for them to see themselves over the line in Athens, even though they have a two-goal lead heading into the second leg.
If Rangers were to progress to the third qualifying round, even a defeat there against either Servette or Viktoria Plzen would see them earn a place in the Europa League’s league phase for the coming season.
However, if they let their lead slip against Panathinaikos, it could have “perilous” consequences for the Gers, according to Gary Keown in the print edition of the Scottish Mail on Sunday (27 July, pg. 91).
The journalist has noted that defeat for Rangers on Wednesday (30 July) would see them face a difficult clash against Ukrainian side Shakhtar Donetsk in the Europa League’s third qualifying round, which would certainly not be an easy proposition for Martin’s side.
Panathinaikos tie is crucial for Rangers’ season
Martin’s main assignment will undoubtedly be to try to knock Celtic off their perch, but the importance of Rangers’ European exploits cannot be underestimated.
A lengthy run on the continent could provide a valuable stream of income for the Govan outfit, which would then open up the possibility to strengthen the squad further in the latter stages of the transfer window and in January.
A Champions League run would be a dream scenario, but the Europa League would still serve as a reasonable backup. However, what Rangers cannot afford is to miss out on both entirely.
European campaigns do have the potential to act as a distraction to domestic seasons, and while the Gers won’t want that to be the case, they could undoubtedly use the money that it would bring in.
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