Rangers manager Van Bronckhorst relishing Borussia Dortmund European test

Giovanni van Bronckhorst says Rangers are relishing their Europa League tie against Borussia Dortmund on Thursday.

The Scottish champions travel to Germany for the first leg of their knock-out tie, before the return in Glasgow next week.

Van Bronckhorst said: ‘’We are playing against one of the top sides in Europe.

“When you are involved in Europe after the winter break you are going to play against a very good opposition.

“We are relishing the challenge to play against a top side. We will try to get through to the next round.

‘’We want to play against the best opposition possible. These are the games you want.

“That’s why you work hard when you are young, to be able to play in these games. Everyone is excited and ready to play this game against a big opponent.

“That’s what you want to have in life and football, to face challenges and overcome the challenges. We want to have a good result to take into the second leg.‘’

Dortmund’s star man Erling Haaland is nursing a muscle injury and could miss the match.

‘’Everyone recognises the talent he has,’’ said van Bronckhorst.

“He is one of the top strikers in the world. Dortmund have been playing without him for weeks. It looks like he won’t be in the squad tomorrow. If he is, then we will prepare for that.’’

Due to Covid restrictions, there will be only 10,000 fans in the Westfalenstadion, while Ibrox will be full to capacity for the second leg.

“Of course, it’s different to play in front of 10,000 people compared to a full stadium,” said van Bronckhorst.

“We’ve had games this season with a full stadium and less of a crowd, so we know the differences. But still we are facing a good team, so for me there is no real difference, we still have to go out and perform.’’

Ryan Jack has recovered from an ankle knock and has been declared fit for Thursday’s match, but the game comes too soon for Leon Balogun who sustained a hamstring injury against Hibernian.