UEFA make official decision on Antman debut v Plzen, another Rangers ace out of squad
Rangers are set to take on Viktoria Plzen at Ibrox on Tuesday in the third-qualifying round of the Champions League.
The Gers will hope to get off to the best possible start against the Czech side, with the return leg to be played next week.
Russell Martin’s side convincingly bested Greek side Panathinaikos in the second round, winning at Ibrox and holding their opponents to a draw in Athens.
And the Englishman will hope to be boosted by key returns to his squad, after several players missed out in the last round.
Ranger squad v Plzen officially confirmed
Plzen are expected to offer Rangers a different test to that of Panathinaikos.
Miroslav Koubek’s side finished second in Czechia’s top division last season, and narrowly made it past Servette in their own Champions League second qualifying tie.
Qualification for Europe’s premium competition will be among Martin’s immediate aims, with the former Saints boss getting off to a shaky start in the Scottish Premiership.
The Gers could only draw against Motherwell, conceding a late Emmanuel Longelo equaliser after James Tavernier had put the visitors ahead early on.
But Martin will hope to see an improved performance from his side on Tuesday, with latest Rangers signing Oliver Antman set to make his debut.
| Oliver Antman | Eredivisie 2024/25 |
| Appearances | 32 |
| Goals | 6 |
| Assists | 15 |
The 23-year-old’s arrival was confirmed on Monday (4 August), with the winger coming off the back of an impressive season in the Eredivisie.
Antman’s participation was confirmed after UEFA (5 August) published Rangers’ official squad list for the Plzen tie, with injured midfielder Thelo Aasgaard dropping out in the Finland international’s place.
Mikey Moore, who has signed on loan from Tottenham, is also set to miss out with his international clearance not yet granted.
https://x.com/DyrielCessers/status/1952382079687344612Momentum key for Martin
Martin will know that momentum is key ahead of Tuesday’s clash against Plzen.
The former Southampton boss had got off to a superb start against Panathinaikos, but Saturday’s (2 August) draw against Motherwell was certainly a blow.
Hope can return with a positive result in the opening leg, however, with Antman’s introduction certain to provide the Ibrox faithful with a reason to get off their seats.
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