Rangers’ Europa League rivals Royal Antwerp have seen the row over Cameroon international Didier Lamkel Ze’s future at the club after manager Franky Vercauteren refused to rule out him playing again.
Lamkel Ze caused controversy when he appeared for training wearing an Anderlecht shirt – similar to a Rangers player showing up in an Aberdeen kit – but the veteran Belgian boss insists he could still have a future at the club.
Despite making it clear he wanted to be allowed to leave and join Panathinaikos, Lamkel Ze hasn’t been allowed to leave and could still feature when Rangers face the Belgians in the Europa League next month.
Fans don’t want him to play again for the club but Vercauteren hinting that the forward still has a future is only going to escalate things further.
“He may return to train with the first team next week,” Vercautern said [Daily Record].
“I don’t know. I suppose it depends on whether we get another visit from the fans. We look at his situation day by day.
“He played in a practice match last week and I’ve yet to see the footage, but as far as I am concerned he is part of our squad.
“We respect all opinions and we listen to the views of our supporters.
“But we are trying to find the best solution for the club.”
After his training stunt, Lamkel Ze released an apology but it hasn’t won over fans, despite his show of contrition.
Rangers head to Belgium for the last 32 first leg on February 18 before meeting in the return at Ibrox seven days later on February 25.
The Gers went one stage further last season and will be hoping to at least reach that point again this time around as they continue to excel in Europe.
Antwerp received a massive boost in the league over the weekend after a dramatic climb up the table