Rangers have been handed yet another Europa League boost, as Villarreal’s new signing Manuel Iturra isn’t eligible to face the Gers.
UEFA have informed Villarreal that they cannot play their new signing as he’s been signed after the transfer window. The defensive midfielder was snapped up on a free transfer after leaving Necaxa of Mexico.
It’s yet another boost for Steven Gerrard, as the Spaniards are still struggling from a host of injuries to key players. In contrast, Rangers are set to welcome back several of their first-team stars.
Jordan Rossiter, Graham Dorrans, and Eros Grezda are all back in training. It remains to be seen if Dorrans or Grezda will be fit to face Villarreal at El Madrigal. Rossiter, however, can’t due to not making the squad list for the group stages of the Europa League.
The Gers have already received a boost earlier on in the week by finding out John Terry can’t play against them should he sign for Spartak Moscow. That move is now in doubt anyway.
Tough opposition
There’s no denying all of this news is positive for Gerrard and his side. But then again, these games will be tough regardless of who the opposition puts out.
When it gets to this stage of European competition, you’re always going to face some top-class opposition. So often in the past have Scottish clubs faced European sides with an injury or form crisis and come up short.
Rangers can expect their toughest game of the season when they pitch up in Spain. Villarreal have invested heavily in their squad this season, even though their early-season form is patchy.
Success in the Europa League group stages hasn’t really been defined for Rangers. They already reached their main target by actually getting there in the first place. Anything from here on in has to be considered a bonus.
What is clear is that the stars are aligning nicely for Rangers with the set-backs their rivals are enduring. Gerrard is unbeaten in Europe with his new side, and is forming a real solid outfit at Ibrox.
Stiff tests will come in the next few weeks, and it’s important supporters aren’t too expectant given it’s the club’s first season in Europe since coming back into the Premiership.
Gerrard will just be hoping for a solid display and a competitive performance from his men next Thursday.
