Rangers head coach, Russell Martin confirmed that Cyriel Dessers’ injury isn’t as serious as it initially appeared.
Dessers was helped off the pitch during his side’s Champions League third qualifying round second-leg defeat to Viktoria Plzen, after a heavy tackle caused him to fall awkwardly.
Martin revealed that the injury was not a major setback:
“Cyriel’s is not as bad as everyone feared. Tomorrow will be too early, but we’re really hopeful he can be involved on Tuesday.
“Everyone feared the worst, the way he went off, but it was a small issue — nowhere near as bad as it could’ve been.”
He also noted that while Dessers is still not fully fit, the medical staff will work to ensure he is ready for the final UCL qualifying round against Club Brugge:
“It’s a bit stiff and a bit sore still, but everyone will work really hard to make sure he’s given every chance to be fit for Tuesday.”
The fourth qualifying round could see Dessers face his compatriot Raphael Onyedika, who has been impressive for the Belgian side.
Cyriel Dessers has never played in the Champions League group stage but has made 12 appearances in qualifying rounds ,scoring four goals and providing three assists.
Nedim Bajrami led the line for Rangers in Dessers absence in their 4-2 win over Alloa Athletic in the Scottish League Cup second round.
He opened the scoring for the Gers in the 13th minute, but Alloa equalised in the 25th after Joe Rothwell’s own goal.
Emmanuel Fernandez restored Rangers’ lead three minutes later, before James Tavernier extended it from the penalty spot in the 67th minute.
Alloa continued to push and pulled one back through Scott Taggart, but their hopes were dashed in the 90th minute when 18-year-old Findlay Curtis sealed the win.
