Bayer Leverkusen coach Peter Bosz has warned his men not to write off Rangers ahead of their Europa League showdown.
The German big guns are set to land in Scotland this week – but are sweating on several of their star men.
Sven Bender limped off in yesterday’s 4-0 hammering of Eintracht Frankfurt, to join twin brother Lars on the treatment table.
Hitman Kevin Volland is out long term while £9m playmaker Nadim Amiri is also struggling to be fit for Thursday’s first leg.
Bayer have hit top gear despite the crock list – with £19m Brazillian teenager dazzling with a double on his first Budesliga start.
Bosz admitted he is out to win the Europa League – but he insisted Rangers won’t be taken lightly despite their domestic woes.
The Dutchman said: “What do we expect from Rangers? I don’t know. I have to be honest – I haven’t even thought about Rangers yet.
“There’s not been time with so many matches.
“But the work starts on Monday because we have to be ready. I know they deserve respect because of the results they have achieved in the Europa League this season.
“They have beaten Braga, Porto and Feyenoord, so we know they will be dangerous.
“Rangers are a traditional big club so I’m not surprised to see them at this stage. They deserve to be here.
“I am looking forward to taking my team to Glasgow. I have never played in Scotland so I am hoping to enjoy it.
“We are playing with confidence and we want to go far in this competition – but to do that we have to get past Rangers.”
Bosz admitted losing both Benders was a blow but he insisted his side are flying with Paulinho stealing the show.
He said: “It is not yet possible to say what Sven has. He will go to the MRI right away and we will know more.
“We are happy with Paulinho. If you score two goals on your debut and give a template, then you can be satisfied with yourself. I am very satisfied. To win 4-0 against Frankfurt in a busy week is not a matter of course. Also how we played was very good.”
