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Glasgow Live
Glasgow Live
Sport
Ben Banks

Celtic connection used by Union Saint Gilloise as former Hoops and Rangers men utilised by Belgians

Union Saint-Gilloise have called upon some Glasgow advice from former Celtic and Rangers players ahead of their huge night this evening.

The Belgian club have enjoyed a near dream year and a bit, winning the second tier and coming within an inch of First Division glory. They now stand between Rangers and a place in the Champions League play-offs this month, with the first leg held in Leuven tonight. Prior to their meeting, One-time Celtic goalkeeper Logan Bailly, who is now goalkeeping coach at Union, and former Ibrox midfielder Thomas Buffel have been on hand to provide insight.

Boss Karel Geraerts knows the type of football Scotland gets branded with but intel tells him it won't be a night for sore necks. He told Nieuwsblad: “They gave me some information. Make no mistake, Rangers don't play classic Scottish football with lots of long balls. It is a team that tries to build up and plays very offensive football.

READ MORE: Rangers Champions League playoff draw RECAP as Light Blues discover potential European foes

"And of course they have a lot of strong players, like (Rabbi) Matondo, who we know from Cercle. I have asked my boys to start every match with the conviction to win.

"It's no different now. Most only know Rangers from television or the Champions League, but tomorrow all of that should have no impact.

"It is now up to us to stand there. We have enforced these preliminary rounds ourselves, there is no need to be afraid. My players don't have stage fright. I think it could be a great European night.”

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