‘Mud’ – German media getting in Rangers pitch digs already

As long as we’re not all under lockdown by Thursday, Rangers will welcome Bayer Leverkusen in the Europa League round-of-16.

It’s a big deal for both clubs, and Steven Gerrard will be thrilled his side progressed against Braga, thanks largely to Ianis Hagi, who has been receiving attention around Europe.

Hagi will get coverage in Germany ahead of the match, but on Tuesday, Bild concentrate on the pitch Bayer will face Rangers on.

They’re not expecting a perfect lawn, and suggest there could be a ‘mud’ battle at Ibrox. A risk of rain in Glasgow leading up to the match has presented the worry of a poor surface, and it’s explained UEFA have told the Bundesliga club they can’t train at Rangers’ ground ahead of the match.

Given Bayer have several speedy players, Bild explains the club would prefer a ‘top surface’, with the insinuation being they’re not likely to get that.

Should they struggle with the pitch, then it’s likely the German club will complain afterwards. In November, manager Peter Bosz slated his own pitch before it was replaced, so it’s unlikely to be a case of unfairly singling out Rangers.