Rangers’ European foes Sparta Prague have been stunned by a double injury blow that may dent their hopes against the Ibrox side.
Defender Ondrej Celustka and striker Adam Hlozek have both been ruled out of the vital tie against Rangers at the end of the month.
Celustka, who has featured for the Czech Republic on 28 occasions, misses out after suffering a knee injury. Hlozek is expected to miss the next few weeks after also injuring his knee. He became Sparta Prague’s youngest ever player three years ago at the age of 16.
While the news of these injuries boosts the chances of a Rangers win, the tie will still be extremely difficult.
Both teams are vying for qualification to the next round of the competition.
Rangers need to win by two clear goals to ensure they finish above Sparta Prague in Group A. This might not secure qualification, however, as Brondby could theoretically win their remaining two matches and finish above Rangers if the Gers stumble against Lyon.
The tie against Sparta Prague is sure to be a fiery one. The first group encounter between the two sides was dominated by terrible scenes as Glen Kamara was booed every time he touched the ball.
This has only added extra incentive for Rangers to go out and win the match and Rangers’ European hopes depend on it.
With the Gers returning to some sort of form recently, including two big domestic wins, they will be excited to get out there and maintain momentum.
Meanwhile, James Tavernier is being lauded by fans for an incredible Ibrox achievement.
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