Leon Balogun dealt Rangers injury hammer blow ahead of Dortmund as Gio van Bronckhorst left with defensive head-scratcher

Crocked Leon Balogun will miss Rangers blockbuster Europa League clash with Borussia Dortmund.

Gio van Bronckhorst has been left without the Nigeria cap for the crucial first leg at the Westfalenstadion on Thursday.

However, the 33-year-old could be back for the second leg at Ibrox next week.

Balogun has been missing since he limped off in the 2-0 win over Hibs earlier this month and will not be ready for the trip to Germany.

Filip Helander is not part of the Europa League squad despite making his return from injury, leaving the Ibrox boss with some big decisions over a backline that could face superstar striker Erling Haaland.

Ryan Jack is fit to travel and will be part of the Rangers squad travelling to Germany in a positive boost for the Premiership champions.

Speaking ahead of the game, Van Bronckhorst said: "Filip was not in our European squad. It was a difficult decision but he has only played 60 mins after so many months.

"Leon is not available for tomorrow, hopefully back next week.

"Ryan (Jack) is fit to travel with us to Germany."