Rangers face RB Leipzig in tonight’s massive Europa League semi-final second leg clash and Ibrox legend Mark Hateley thinks Kemar Roofe and Aaron Ramsey could play key roles for the Light Blues – if they recover from injury in time.
Gers boss Gio van Bronckhorst was coy on whether the Rangers duo would be fit to play a part as the Light Blues look to book their place in the final.
Roofe has hit the net against Braga, Benfica, Liege and Brondby this season in the Europa League and his presence tonight could be “key” for the Light Blues tonight.
While both have been missing in the last few games, at least one should be involved tonight for Rangers – and Hateley admits Gio is left relying on his players’ “honesty.”
“You’re holding back to the last minute to pick your side relying on fitness and honesty from your players,” the Rangers legend told BBC’s Good Morning Scotland.
“I think Roofe is key. Don’t get me wrong, I think Fashion Sakala has done pretty well but he’s not the same kind of player.
“We’ve seen the sort of goals that Roofe can produce and how vitally important he has been after the loss of Alfredo Morelos.
“I also think Ramsey is key – whether he starts the game or comes on – with his ability to unlock defences.”
Rangers face massive night at rocking Ibrox to book Europa League final place in Seville
With Leipzig having a one-goal advantage, Rangers will need to be at their very best if the Light Blues are to head for Seville later this month.
Having Roofe back would be massive and the striker has shown time and again how valuable he can be in the big European games for Rangers.
The lack of attacking options for Rangers has been clear to see recently but the return of Roofe would definitely help take the pressure off the likes of Ryan Kent and Joe Aribo.