Rangers’ Europa League performance vs Celtic’s isn’t something many will be too concerned about. But it could be a big statement of intent.
It’ll be one of the furthest things from Steven Gerrard’s mind no doubt. It should be considering the challenges Rangers have coming up. But, on the flip side, a strong Europa League display as opposed to Celtic would be a huge plus point.
Whenever a challenge from Rangers has been spoken about, a key point of discussion has been Celtic’s Champions League money. Their performances in Europe is what has been keeping them far in the distance for the Gers.
This season, however, they find themselves in the same stage and competition as Rangers. Such is the improvement of both standards and squad-quality under Gerrard, there’s a level playing field.
Added to that, Celtic have been given an extremely tough group against Rosenborg and the two Red Bull sides. The Gers don’t have it easy either, however, with Villarreal, Rapid Vienna, and Spartak Moscow all in Rangers’ schedule.
What can’t be denied, however, is the confidence flowing through Rangers’ veins as a club. Even an Old Firm defeat to Celtic couldn’t halt the good feeling at Ibrox. It’s a confidence and euphoria that Celtic are struggling to replicate over the other side of the city. It’s even more incredible when you look at what they won last season. Nowadays, however, they look a shadow of their double-treble winning side.
This could open a window of opportunity for Rangers.
If they could progress further than Celtic in the Europa League, then it would be a huge psychological blow for the Parkhead side. Considering they’ve held a European advantage over Rangers for years now, it would be an incredible turnaround.
All of a sudden, it would be Rangers making more money from their Euro venture. It would help Gerrard be able to reel Celtic in that little bit more next season too.
Parkhead remains a huge disappointment for Rangers this season, and probably the manager’s biggest regret. But, if they can put in a solid showing in the Europa League whilst watching Celtic falter – what a boost that would be for the club.
We’re not blind at Rangers News, however. We know how difficult it will be to put on a successful showing in this group. Celtic are also still a good side with real European experience. Going further than them is an outside shot, and that’s just the cost of where Rangers have been over the last few years.
If it were to happen, though, it would be another huge step in the right direction. In fact, it would be a gigantic leap in truth.
