I'M A GERS GROUPIE

Clement insists he's not interested in consolation prize of Europa League as he targets spot in the promised land

-  SCOTT MCDERMOTT

AT this juncture there can’t be many folk of a Rangers persuasion who believe they’re destined for the Champions League.

In fact, even some of their own supporters might believe in their heart of hearts NOT making it on to Europe’s big stage could be a blessing in disguise.

And that settling for a spot in the Europa League might actually be quite a pleasant consolation prize.

But when that notion was put to gaffer Philippe Clement last night here in Lublin, there was only going to be one answer.

This is a guy, remember, who managed to compete in one-off Champions League games against clubs such as Real Madrid when he was coach of Brugge.

Clement knows he and his Rangers squad aren’t where they want to be at this stage of a new campaign.

His summer rebuild feels like it’s still in the early stages. And a 0-0 draw in Edinburgh against Hearts at the weekend only strengthened the opinion.

But while there are plenty of doubters out there, the Belgian has to believe in his players.

That’s why he’s convinced they can defy the considerable odds by seeing off Dynamo Kyiv – then either Twente or RB Salzburg – and get to Europe’s promised land.

Which in turn would open up fresh cash reserves to bolster his squad.

Ahead of the first-leg clash in Poland, Clement said: “I believe we have all the quality to do it (reach the group stage). “It’s about finding the right balance and taking the moments. “Mentality-wise, the players are ready.