Michael Beale challenges Rangers to prove Champions League mettle as raucous PSV welcome assurances given

Michael Beale has thrown down the gauntlet to his Rangers squad as he insisted it’s time they proved they’re capable of becoming Champions League stars at Ibrox.

The Light Blues stand just 90 minutes away from hitting the £20million group-stage jackpot. But first they have to find a way to finish off PSV after last week’s thrilling first-leg draw in Glasgow. That 2-2 stalemate means Gers will walk out into the Philips Stadion on Wednesday facing the same challenge that awaited them last year when Gio van Bronckhorst was in charge.

The Dutchman’s team came up with the perfect response as Antonio Colak’s winner ended a 12-year wait to rejoin the European elite and sent them through to the group stage draw. Now Beale wants to see if his team can do the same. The Londoner said: “It’s a hugely exciting week if you’re a Rangers player and a Rangers follower and I’m no different as the coach.

“The two games we have coming up in the next four of five days is what it’s all about playing for this club. If you can’t enjoy it and you can’t seize the opportunity in front of you then you probably don’t deserve to be at our club.

“This is a huge moment so it’s important we give this game everything. It’s a final in that sense. Obviously, it would be huge for the club and the fans first and foremost and this group is desperate to play in that competition again.

“Naturally for me and the staff that's the aim and the aim coming into pre-season. We have a huge test ahead of us to see that be a reality.”

Rangers had to overcome an explosive atmosphere inside the ground and out before dumping the Dutch last year. Van Bronckhorst was left fuming when the PSV support’s frenzied pyro display at the stadium gates spooked one of Gers two team