Barry Ferguson missed out on Rangers’ last clash with Fenerbahce more than two decades ago but this time he will lead them into battle in the hostile environment of Istanbul.
The sides have only met once and that was in 2001 when Ferguson was in his pomp. But injury ruled him out of Dick Advocaat’s side for a money-spinning Champions League qualifier. The Light Blues drew 0-0 in the first leg at home, during which Michael Mols was sent off, before a 2-1 defeat in Turkey sent them into UEFA’s second tier competition.
And that is where the two sides will meet this season. Jose Mourinho being in the home dug-out adds a bit of spice to any fixture as Ferguson, in caretaker charge, pits his wits against one of the greatest managers ever in the game.
Record Sport’s top team have delivered their predictions ahead of a big night at the Sukru Saracoglu Stadium.
Andy Newport
It’s been a difficult few weeks for the Ibrox side but they have managed to up their game in Europe more than once this season. Taking on Jose Mourinho’s team in their crazy cauldron will be a huge test but they are capable of claiming a result which will leave it all to play for in the Ibrox return.
Fenerbahce 2 Rangers 1
Scott McDermott
Given current form, it could be a long night for Rangers in Istanbul. Jose Mourinho wants to win this competition and has some top quality players at his disposal, especially in attacking areas. Expect Gers to lose but score a goal – and that might just keep them in the tie for the return leg at Ibrox next week.
Fenerbahce 3 Rangers 1
Keith Jackson
Barry Ferguson didn’t go into this interim role blind. Far from it. But even he may have been shocked by what he’s seen from the inside over the last week or so. He’s been dealt a duff hand – and is coming up against one of the game’s greatest modern day managers – but that won’t dampen his determination to upset the odds. He’ll need to come with something special and hope that luck is also on his side. It looks like a big ask.
Fenerbahce 2 Rangers 0
Scott Burns
Rangers, on current form, would be hard to back but they are a different proposition in Europe.
I do worry about them defensively in this arena, but if Souttar and Balogan are fit that should help. I think Rangers can keep alive heading back to Ibrox.
Fenerbahce 2 Rangers 1
Fraser Wilson
Rangers have produced their best stuff this season on the Euro stage but they have also served up their worst over the past month. I fear even the return of John Souttar and Leon Balogun won’t be enough to stop Jose Mourinho’s side which is packed with experience, talent and is bang in form.
Fenerbahce 3 Rangers 1
Ross Pilcher
Rangers at home have been a disaster in recent weeks. But now they get a break from Ibrox and the domestic horror show that has unfolded.
It’s saying something when a trip to play in Istanbul is seen as respite. But this team has come out of its shell on European nights and it wouldn’t be a major surprise if they got a result.
Fenerbahce 2 Rangers 2
Gavin Berry
Fenerbahce 3 Rangers 1
Jose Mourinho’s men have only lost a couple of times at home all season which underlines the task facing Barry Ferguson and his side. The Ibrox side have saved their best for Europe but the confidence among this group of players, not to mention the fact they are under the guidance of a caretaker coaching team, is shot and this has the potential to get messy.