Connor Goldson in Rangers dreamland as he reflects on humble career beginnings ahead of PSV showdown

Connor Goldson couldn’t have dreamed of playing 67 games in Europe when he was scrubbing around at Shrewsbury at the start of his career.

So to be on the verge of clocking up that number of appearances in just over four seasons for Rangers and with a European final under his belt, it’s not difficult to understand the sense of wonder he still feels at the direction in which his career has taken since moving to Scotland from Brighton. Goldson, remember, had well documented heart issues to deal with as well and has overcome those to such a degree that he has been a virtual ever present since Steven Gerrard lured him north in the summer of 2018.

And with a league title and Scottish Cup win on his CV, as well as Seville, the only real bucket-list item still to be ticked is a Champions League appearance. Tonight in Eindhoven the 29-year-old can sort that out by helping his team overcome PSV to book their place in Europe’s elite competition for the first time since 2011.

That would also boost the club’s coffers by £40m, although Goldson was at pains yesterday to point out that prestige wins over pounds every time in the eyes of a player. He wants this, big time. Even if last season’s Europa League final against Eintracht Frankfurt will remain at top of his personal achievements, despite the penalty heartache that denied Rangers their first continental trophy in 50 years.

Asked if tonight’s clash with the Dutch giants would eclipse Seville in terms of importance to him, the centre back admitted: “Personally for me, no. I know what you mean, but Seville was a European final and not many players get to play in one of those through their whole career.

“I understand the financial gains the club will get for it but as a player we