Standard Liège coach Philippe Montanier has labelled Glasgow Rangers ’one of the best teams in Europe’ ahead of their meeting in the Europa League on Thursday.
Rangers kick off their European campaign on Thursday with a trip to take on the Belgian side in Group D.
Steven Gerrard’s side are heading into the game in good form, having started their league campaign with nine wins from 11 games, conceding just three goals thus far.
Their excellent start continued over the weekend with an 2-0 win over Rivals Celtic in the Old Firm Derby, thanks to a brace from Connor Goldson, a result that put them four points clear at the top of the Scottish Premiership.
It means Rangers will head into their clash with Liège full of confidence, and Gerrard’s opposite number Montanier was full of praise ahead of the match.
“But in terms of statistics, we will play against one of the best teams in Europe.
“They have planted 37 goals, conceded four goals and made 11 clean sheets in all competitions up to now.
“They are not developing a traditional Scottish game, and Steven Gerrard does a very good job.
“A two-way team, they defend and attack together. Our opponent is fast, technical and moving forward. We will have to be wary of that.”
Like Rangers, Liège have had a good start to the season themselves, with five wins from their first nine games.
Their weekend was not as joyous as the Gers’, although a 1-1 draw with league leaders Club Brugge was widely considered a good result given they are in the Champions League.
And Montanier is hoping they will once again be able to raise their performance when Rangers come to town.
“Brugge had a big performance in the Champions League,” he added.
“And we stood up to them on Saturday night. We are able to raise our level against big opponents.
“This will be the case against Rangers; we are wary but confident about our last performance.”
