Rangers will suffer defeat to PSV in their Champions League qualification clash, according to Rafael Van der Vaart, who claims he does not like the club at all.

As reported by FootballScotland (29 August), the former Tottenham and Real Madrid midfielder was quick to criticise Michael Beale’s side for their defensive frailties and suggested PSV should have no issue beating them away from “impressive” Ibrox.

However, Ruud Gullit defended Rangers, suggesting van der Vaart is underestimating the Gers claiming that PSV struggle to create chances.

Speaking to Ziggo Sport, as quoted by FootballScotland, Van der Vaart said: “I really don’t like Rangers at all. It used to be great to play against Scottish teams.

“They don’t cover through and there are a lot of spaces. It always seems to be something at home, because it’s an impressive stadium with that audience behind it. Only I really can’t imagine that PSV won’t get through.”

Gullit defended Rangers in response to Van der Vaart, saying: “I think you underestimate it. If PSV were that good, you should have won it big and you didn’t. You do dominate, but you create very little. Rangers wait just as long until you make a mistake.”

Hotly contested

Van der Vaart is the latest football icon to speak down on Rangers after PSV legend Willy van de Kerkhof said, as quoted by the Daily Record (24 August): “If PSV don’t qualify against a team like Rangers, then they have no right to be in the group stages of the Champions League.”

Rangers are clearly entering this clash as the underdogs which may work in their favour. Beale’s side has changed their fortunes after a tough start to the new season, but issues still remain that must be ironed out.

However, in the midst of a six-game unbeaten run which was recently extended after a 2-0 victory over Ross County on Saturday (28 August), expectations have risen in the stands of Ibrox regarding their chances of Champions League group stage qualification.

While van der Vaart is not incorrect in his criticism of the Gers and their defensive issues, his clear dislike for the club is apparent. Gullit offered a more fair view of the situation.

PSV were not at their best at Ibrox when the spoils were shared and Rangers will likely look to capitalise on any mistakes from their opponents to seal the tie, as Gullit suggested.

However, it will be a tough night for Rangers as, on paper, PSV are the favourites to progress. While the loser will still enter the Europa League group stages, the pride that comes with achieving qualification to Europe’s elite competition is significant.

In other Rangers news, Michael Stewart has shared his prediction ahead of the Gers first Old Firm clash of the season.

This article was originally posted here