Rangers’ domestic form has left much to be desired this season, with inconsistency proving to be a major stumbling block in their pursuit of silverware.
Despite showing up for the big occasions, such as their New Year win over Celtic, they have struggled to maintain the same level of intensity against lower-ranked opposition.
However, when it comes to European nights, Rangers have found a way to rise to the challenge, finishing in the top eight of the Europa League’s new league phase to book their place in the Round of 16.
Now, they face one of their toughest tests yet, travelling to Istanbul to take on a Fenerbahce side boasting quality across the pitch and led by the experienced Jose Mourinho.
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Former Rangers full-back Alan Hutton believes mentality will be key if his old side are to handle the cauldron-like atmosphere in Turkey, warning that every player must deliver their best performance to stand a chance.
His sentiments were echoed by Michael Stewart, who highlighted the fanaticism of Turkish supporters and the challenge that awaits in what is set to be an intense first-leg showdown.
Speaking on Premier Sports’ Scottish Football Social Club, Hutton said: “The bigger thing is that it’s more of a mentality thing when I look at the team because if you can get yourself up for the Celtic game, the big European ties under the lights, these kind of games, but you struggle to go to St Mirren and all the, I don’t want to say lesser teams, but teams that you possibly should be beating, and you can’t turn up and have the same drive and desire in those games then that’s a big problem.
“It’s a huge ask to go over there with the atmosphere that they are going to encounter.
“I went out and seen Greegs [Allan McGregor] when he was at Besiktas and they [the fans] were wild. You are walking down the streets and the fans are absolutely wild. So, I can only imagine what it’s like at the likes of Fenerbahce.
“Rangers will be used to playing in these kind of atmospheres. But they need to turn up. Every single person needs to play at the highest level that they possibly can.”
Stewart, who had a short spell with Gençlerbirliği in Turkey after leaving Hearts, then provided his take on what Rangers should expect.
“Even just being there, like Alan’s talking about, you travel around even before the season and you understand how fanatical the supporters are. It’s quite incredible," he explained.
“It is genuinely life or death for a lot of these folk. It’s mental. Fenerbahce are obviously one of the biggest teams in the country as well. They’ve got Jose Mourinho and a team full of talent. So, it’s not going to be easy for Rangers, that’s for certain.”
