Ferencvaros vs Rangers ‘countdown clock’ begins amid last-ditch postponement fears – Exclusive
Rangers’ Europa League clash with Ferencvaros is at risk of being postponed.
A trip to the Groupama Arena beckons for Rangers on Thursday, as they prepare to take on Hungarian giants Ferencvaros in the Europa League.
The Gers are still chasing their first win in the competition, having lost four of their last five.
However, weather warnings in Hungary this week could prevent their ability to seal their first Europa League win of the season.
Fog could disrupt Rangers’ Europa League clash
A yellow weather warning is in place for Hungary on Thursday, with the Hungarian Meteorological Service detailing “locally dense fog affecting significant areas of the country.”
It informs that some airports could be closed for a short duration, while other travel plans may also be affected.
However, the fog is also likely to have a significant impact on Rangers’ clash with Ferencvaros, with tests set to take place to see if the game can go ahead.
Speaking exclusively to Ibrox News, Keith Hackett, a former UEFA official, said: “Fog is very difficult to predict, and every effort will be made to get the game to go ahead.
“The Referee will have weather forecasts available to see, and the possibility of a direct call with the weather authorities in the country.
“It is normal for a countdown clock to be prepared, which details when the team coaches and match officials leave their hotels for the ground under police escort.
Could Rangers’ game be postponed?
Ahead of the game, the match officials will undergo several tests to ensure that the Rangers clash is fine to go ahead as planned.
This will involve the referee testing how far they can see in the ground, ensuring that the fog will not impact their line of sight.
“Inside the stadium, the referee will have his own checklist to carry out tests,” Hackett added.
“If these tests ensure that spectators can see, then I am happy for the game to go ahead.
“Finally, at the security meeting with the police, the UEFA Stadium Commander, and the match delegate, we will discuss any contingency arrangements if these tests ensure the game has to be abandoned.“
Enjoyed this article? Stay connected with all the latest news, updates, and behind-the-scenes content by following us on our new Instagram account – @ibroxnews247