Rangers have been handed a Europa League boost by the Chinese Super League as one of the nation’s leading clubs poach Royal Antwerp manager Ivan Leko.
The Gers are set to face off against the Belgian side in the Europa League round of 32 in February and there had been earlier reports that Leko could be set to leave the club.
Taking to their official website, Antwerp made it official as they reported Leko had terminated his contract with the Great Old and would be leaving the club immediately.
The statement confirms the interest from megabucks Chinese Super League side Shanghai SIPG F.C and also suggested club assistant manager Edward Still would be moving with Leko.
“Antwerp coach Ivan Leko has just confirmed that he will end his current contract with immediate effect,” reads the club statement.
“Almost 2 weeks ago, the club was notified of interest in Ivan Leko by the Chinese SIPG; today we received an official letter that the coach is ending his contract and leaving The Great Old immediately.
“As an extension of Ivan Leko’s departure, we learn that Edward Still would also make the switch to China; although this has not yet been officially confirmed.
“Under the leadership of Ivan Leko, we achieved the third Cup win in our club history this summer.
“We are wintering in Europe after a great campaign in the group stage of the Europa League. Royal Antwerp FC currently occupies fifth place in the Pro League.
“The club regrets that Ivan Leko terminates his contract prematurely, but wishes him every success in his further career.
“The club is now taking the time to appoint a new head coach. Communication will only take place once that appointment has been confirmed.”
Under Leko, Royal Antwerp managed to navigate through a tough Europa League group containing Tottenham Hotspur, LASK and Ludogorets.
The Daily Record have suggested the Belgian side could look to ex-Belgium national team coach Marc Wilmots to lead the side.
But as Rangers prepare for a different test in Belgium from the one previously expected, just how far can the Gers go in the Europa League this season?
