Ajax banish Antony transfer cloud and put Rangers on alert despite key injury worry in Eredivisie romp

Razor-sharp Ajax overmatched Utrecht to send a clear signal their future remains bright despite star turn Antony on the verge of signing for Manchester United.

Rangers are on alert as they head to Amsterdam in 10 days for their Champions League group stage opener in the Johan Cruyff Arena. But Alfred Schreuder's team had no problems on their travels as they made it four consecutive Eredivisie wins to maintain their status as early season pacesetters. Steven Berghuis and Brian Brobbey netted in the first half to leave the hosts dazed and confused during the opening salvo.

The Rangers scout in attendance will likely have headlined their notes with the attacking threat Ajax offer, a calling card that has defined one of European football's most iconic names throughout their trophy-laden history. This wasn't the Eredivisie kingpins at their free flowing best but played with a purpose despite losing right-back to Devyne Rensch to injury.

A word for Calvin Bassey as the former Rangers star is forging a blossoming partnership with Jurrien Timber at the heart of the Ajax backline. Lisandro Martinez was a key player, however the Nigeria international has added a physicality and looked ice cool when taking the ball out from the back. Celtic loanee Vasilis Barkas found himself unable to quell the attacking threat from Schreuder's side.

Now only a home clash with Cambuur next Saturday stands between Ajax and their mouthwatering opener against Gio van Bronckhorst 's men. They will know full well the Europa League finalists will provide a sterner test than the one they received on Sunday. It's a key fixture for both, of course, as every point is a premium in Group A with both Napoli and Liverpool also eyeing a trip to the last