Michael Beale emphasized the significance of the upcoming week for the Rangers team, aiming to secure victory over PSV Eindhoven and advance into the Champions League. The initial match of the play-off against the Dutch team resulted in a 2-2 draw at Ibrox last week. The Rangers' progress has been evident, as they bounced back from their defeat on the opening day of the Scottish Premiership against Kilmarnock with a convincing 2-0 win over Ross County on Saturday.
Beale is hopeful that the Philips Stadion match on Wednesday night will provide the full 90-plus minute performance he desires. A victory in this match would allow Rangers to surpass their Old Firm rivals, Celtic, in the league standings before their upcoming clash on Sunday. Beale expressed his excitement for this important week as both a Rangers coach and follower. One slight setback is that midfielder Kieran Dowell will be unavailable due to a minor knee issue.
The upcoming two games within the next four or five days are crucial as they define the essence of representing this club.
If you are unable to relish the experience and capitalize on the chances presented to you, then you might not be worthy of being a part of our club.
This is a critical moment. It is crucial that we give our all in this game - it holds the significance of a final.
This team deserves a remarkable performance, and we are presented with a fantastic opportunity. We are well aware that we need to exceed last week's performance if we intend to advance.
"There won't be too many surprises, but we have a lot of variety across the forward positions.
"We know we will need to be strong defensively first and then take our opportunities when they come."
Rangers suffered a devastating blow in the previous season's group stage, losing all six matches, including a crushing 7-1 defeat to Liverpool. This dismal performance resulted in the worst Champions League record to date. However, Beale remains eager for another chance to compete in the prestigious tournament.
"It would be monumental [to qualify]," he expressed. "It would be a moment of greatness for the club and, above all, for the fans. Additionally, it holds immense significance for this band of players who are intensely eager to participate in that competition once more.
Image:
Rangers beat PSV Eindhoven to reach last season's Champions League group stages
Our main objective coming into pre-season is obviously to achieve that. We are faced with a significant challenge ahead of us, which will determine whether our aim becomes a reality.
I strongly believe that this game will provide opportunities for both teams, and it will ultimately be the team that displays the most determination and decisiveness that will emerge victorious.
While PSV Eindhoven enjoyed a weekend off for preparation, Rangers made the journey to Dingwall. Beale believes that the 90-minute match was advantageous for his squad.
Expressing his thoughts, the ex-QPR manager said, "Considering we have approximately 14 or 15 players leaving this summer and nine new players joining, playing more games helps in building a stronger team."
We had a great victory over the weekend, achieving a clean sheet and taking a positive step forward in the league. I was pleased with the outcome. Now, sitting here without any injuries and with everyone in a good mental state, I believe it was the right decision to play. Playing over the weekend gives us an advantage.
Bosz reading nothing into past meeting ahead of Rangers' visit
Image:
PSV manager Peter Bosz pictured in Glasgow
PSV Eindhoven manager Peter Bosz is not placing any importance on last season's Champions League defeat against Rangers as he prepares for Wednesday's play-off match at the Philips Stadion. Bosz, who took charge of PSV after the departure of Ruud van Nistelrooy this summer, highlighted the changes that have occurred at both clubs.
The 59-year-old stated, "I have previously mentioned that I was not present during the previous season, so it is not a concern for me in any way. The more you discuss it, the more it may affect the players' mindset, but for me, it is an entirely different circumstance."
Image:
Rangers head to Eindhoven with the tie in the balance
"PSV have a different coach, some different players and it's the same with Rangers.
It is crucial to me that players grasp from their mistakes, and we did make a few errors last week. By improving in that aspect, it will greatly assist us in tomorrow's game.
Therefore, the present situation and upcoming game are entirely distinct, constituting a completely fresh challenge. While not effortless, it bears no resemblance to last season in my perspective.
I am brimming with confidence, even as I acknowledge our team's exceptional players.
Through our performances this season, we have already demonstrated our ability to gel as a unit. We possess individuals who possess the power to influence the outcome of matches, thus instilling me with an abundance of assurance.
"But on the other hand we saw what Rangers is capable of. So we have a lot of respect for the opponent and we must be really focused and play at 100 per cent to win this game.
Image:
Rangers beat PVS Eindhoven in last season's Champions League qualifiers
There is always a healthy tension in every game, but it is something that we eagerly anticipate. These are the most exciting games to participate in or oversee, so let's embrace it and hopefully secure a victory. Netherlands defender Patrick van Aanholt, who seemed unlikely to participate in both legs of the tie, may now be able to play in the game.
Bosz said: "Patrick van Aanholt is training with us so let's see how he does [on Tuesday] - but don't tell Rangers! After training I will take the decision."
Boyd: Rangers will be a threat
We' Kris Boyd:
"Overall PSV were the better team in terms of possession but Rangers looked a threat on the counter-attack.
PSV is a strong attacking team but lacks defensive prowess. Rangers have proven this and will aim to exploit their weaknesses once again in the upcoming match in Eindhoven.
Although PSV is expected to be the favorites to advance in the tie, it is worth noting that they were in a similar position last season.
"Rangers will have to soak up a lot of pressure but, on the counter-attack, they look dangerous."