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Daily Record
Daily Record
Sport
Mark Pirie

Rangers legends predict Ajax outcome as Shota Arveladze forgets split loyalties to map out Amsterdam upset

Rangers are just hours away from joining Europe's elite once again when they kick-off their Champions League group stage campaign against Ajax.

The Dutch champions will provide a formidable test for Gio van Bronckhorst's side with the Ibrox side looking for an instant reaction to the derby day drubbing at the hands of Celtic. Rangers have saved some of their best performances in recent seasons for the European stage, with last season's run to the Europa League Final showing that the Ibrox side can compete with heavyweight clubs like Borussia Dortmund and RB Leipzig.

However, Ajax have shown they are more than capable in the Champions League having reached the knockout rounds of the competition in the last five seasons including a run to the semi-final in 2019. Alfred Schreuder will be keen to avoid repeating any mistakes made by fellow Eredivise side PSV Eindhoven, who Rangers saw off in the playoff round.

It's a game that has got everyone talking. But what do the Rangers heroes of the past think? Record Sport takes a look.

Shota Arveladze

The Hull City boss has split loyalties going into the Champions League blockbuster having lifted league titles as both a Rangers and Ajax player. He reckons there are plenty of similarities between his two former clubs.

He told the Ajax club website: "We have seen that in recent years with a place in the UEFA Europa League Final and reaching the semi-finals in the Champions League. Just like Rangers, they got to the final of the Europa League last year. It is important that clubs with smaller budgets can continue to deliver such a performance.

"I can't really say who will win. Ajax is always good in Amsterdam, and they can play the game they want to play.

"In the end I think Ajax has a slight advantage and a better chance of winning. I put it at 60/40. Hull City aren't playing Wednesday. I'm definitely going to watch and then we'll see."

Ronald de Boer

Another former Rangers star with a strong Ajax connection. He admits he couldn't pick a winner between his former clubs.

De Boer said: “I'm definitely there, both at home and away. Of course I have a history with both clubs. I experienced wonderful things in both Amsterdam and Glasgow.

“For me, Ibrox is still coming home. It feels like a hot shower. As a former player you still get so much respect from the people there. I am really looking forward to the upcoming matches.”

Ally McCoist

The Rangers hero is usually in a buoyant mood before a major European night, but he was more reserved than usual when discussed the trip to Amsterdam on talkSPORT. He said: "This is a real step up in quality again. It's a step up to the Champions League, there is no doubt about it.

"We have talked about Liverpool taking a draw (against Napoli). I would bite your hand off for a draw right now."

Brian Laudrup

Laudrup is another former Rangers hero who has spent time with the Dutch champions. He struggled to offer an optimised to the Ibrox fans before the showdown in the Netherlands just days after the thrashing at the hands of Celtic.

Writing for the Daily Mail, he said: "I was an experienced player by the time I got to Ajax, but I loved the way we set out in every game. Attacking, flowing football. That philosophy will never change. The club oozes class and it is a privilege to play for them, really.

Brian Laudrup (DAILY RECORD)

"While the Johan Cruyff Arena is different from Ibrox, it creates a massive party on European nights. Of course, Calvin Bassey will be up against his old team-mates but, for me, the focus at Ajax is always on going forward.

"Antony has gone to Manchester United but Steven Bergwijn has returned to the club from Tottenham and is in superb form. Operating off the left, he's scored six goals in the first five games of the season. Ajax have taken 15 points out of 15 in the Eredivisie and have a goal difference of plus 13.

"They will ask many of the same questions as Celtic did by playing quick, decisive football. After Saturday, Rangers need to show they can find some answers"

Derek McInnes

The Kilmarnock boss was in high spirts as he prepares to watch his former side in action. He admits it will be a huge test, but backed Gio van Bronckhorst to overcome the underdog tag.

Writing for the Mail on Sunday, he said: "Rangers will be underdogs in each of their group games against Ajax, Liverpool and Napoli but they have shown they are capable of pulling off the big performances. They have also kept most of their best players. Bassey will be missed, as will Joe Aribo, both having played key roles in last season's run to Seville.

"But they've kept Glen Kamara when there must have been a temptation to sell. Likewise, Ryan Kent and Alfredo Morelos. That might be as important as any new signings. Holding on to the likes of Kamara and Kent could be so important."

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