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The National (Scotland)
The National (Scotland)
Sport
Christopher Jack

John Lundstram pinpoints reason behind Rangers transformation ahead of Europa League final

Rangers' John Lundstram celebrates making it 3-1 during a UEFA Europa League Semi-Final match between Rangers and Leipzig

JOHN LUNDSTRAM insists he never doubted that he would make his mark with Rangers and establish himself at Ibrox after turning around his career this term.

The midfielder endured a difficult start to life in Glasgow following his summer switch from Sheffield United as he struggled to make an impact for Steven Gerrard's side.

But he has become an integral part of the team since Giovanni van Bronckhorst was appointed in November and he is now a firm favourite with supporters.

The Scouser has even been serenaded with his own song - to the tune of 'Heaven is a Place on Earth' - in recent weeks after he scored a dramatic semi-final winner against RB Leipzig at Ibrox.

And Lundstram is grateful for the support he has received from the stands as he aims to cap a remarkable transformation by leading Rangers to victory in Seville.

Lundstram said: "I think my form is obviously a lot better and it coincides with the run we have had.

"It helps to get a run of games and try and show what I can do. Glad it has turned out the way it has and just thankful to the manager for giving me the opportunity.

"Not proving a point to myself because I have always been confident in my ability and I know what I can do.

"Obviously coming to a new club, it is a massive club to come into, there is a lot of pressure on me to perform here early doors and hit the ground running.

"Playing for Steven was massive for me and I think that added a bit of pressure playing for my childhood hero.

"A run of games has helped me. It comes with time. I think you have seen it with better players than me that have struggled at bigger clubs.

"It has turned out the way it has and I am absolutely over the moon.

"I can’t give you a few notes [of the song] but I have been singing it in my mind since the semi-final.

"All the messages and videos I have been getting sent is incredible so I am really thankful for the support."

That victory over Leipzig saw Rangers earn a crack at the silverware in Seville and Eintracht Frankfurt now stand between Van Bronckhorst's side and a place in the Ibrox history books.

The Gers have flown the flag for Scotland on the continent in recent years and are on the brink of an iconic achievement as they attempt to follow in the footsteps of the Barcelona Bears and bring the silverware back to Glasgow.

Lundstram said: "I think the lads do deserve loads of credit. I think we have stood up to the test and it has brought out the best in each and every one of us really.

"Coming to Ibrox, I believe we can beat anyone with the crowd behind us. We have just got to go out and do it on the European stage away from home.

"I have seen the run they have had in Europe this year and I don’t think they have lost a game. We are under no illusions that it is going to be a tough night for us.

"They have played some exciting stuff against some massive teams in the competition. Of course we are going to be up against it but we are up for the challenge.

"I think it is massive [to get to a final]. We have done wonders for Scottish football to be honest with you.

"Getting to this final is massive for any club. I remember Liverpool getting here four, five years ago and my home city was absolutely buzzing.

"They got beat against Seville in the final but it was how big it was for a club like Liverpool was huge.

"So for a club like Rangers and for Scottish football, I think it is absolutely massive."

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