Rangers v Cork City is one of the most salivating potential European ties both clubs will have faced in years.
With Rangers affiliation to Northern Ireland, any trip to the south is bound to come under intense scrutiny. The Shelbourne v Rangers tie in 1998 had to be moved to Tranmere’s Preston Park due to safety fears.
But far from bemoaning the draw, excitable Cork City chairman Declan Carey talked up the encounter. And also confirmed that should Cork progress against Progres the match will be played on home soil.
“Obviously we’ll take it one round at a time, but it would be remiss of us not to have preparations in place for a potential game as big as one against Rangers,” Carey told Irish outlet the 42.
“It’ll be Turner’s Cross all the way. It would be an absolute dream come true, particularly for John Cotter to square off against Steven Gerrard in Turner’s Cross.
“It’s a stadium John went to as a young fan and he’s a Liverpool fan as well, so it would be unbelievable for John and for the entire club to bring a club of the stature of Rangers here.
“By all means, get them to Turner’s Cross. It’s our home ground and that’s where we feel we’ll perform most effectively.”
The speculation over a move from Turner’s Cross for the game hasn’t centred around Rangers fans making the trip over, but rather if the stadium will have enough space for demand.
MORE RANGERS STORIES
But the 6000-seater stadium is Cork’s home ground and the club are very happy to welcome Rangers there, should the side go through.
It’s also great to see the club’s chairman talk up the potential visit so much. For most fans it could be a trip to remember.
Rangers currently lead St. Joseph’s after a 4-0 humbling of the Gibraltar side last night in their QR1 tie.
Cork host Progres on Thursday night (11/07) for their first leg tie, before the second leg of both ties are played next Thursday (18/07).
