Steven Gerrard says 'underdogs' Rangers can cause Europa League upset

Steven Gerrard says Rangers will be "underdogs" in the Europa League but have the talent to upset some of the big clubs.

The Ibrox side make their return to the group stages of a European competition for the first time in eight years when they take on Villarreal on Thursday night.

"We are the underdogs in the group in terms of the opinions from outside, but in the dressing room we have a quiet confidence and belief we can cause a shock and get out of the group," Gerrard said.

"We are not here to make up the numbers. We want to challenge in the group and see where we end up.

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"This game doesn't highlight how far I've taken the group but how far the team have taken themselves and the hard work and effort they have put in to get to this stage.

"We all believe this is where this club should be after difficult times and not many people gave us a chance of making this stage.

"If people want to underestimate us or write us off that's fine. I can see a togetherness and a team growing. I'm happy where we are at this moment."

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Injured midfielders Ryan Jack and Ovie Ejaria and defender Gareth McAuley failed to make the trip to Spain, while Gers will also be without the suspended pair of Alfredo Morelos and Jon Flanagan following their play-off red cards in Russia.

Morelos' Ufa dismissal means Kyle Lafferty will now get the chance to shine and Gerrard insists the Northern Irishman deserves his chance.

He added: "Kyle will lead the line and there are no secrets. He goes into the game in good form and in a good place.

"He's the type Villarreal won't be used to playing on a weekly basis as he has different attributes to a typical La Liga striker. I'm looking forward to seeing him play - all the players have earned the right to play against such a good team."

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