'Blessed' Calvin Bassey insists Rangers are not inferior to any team left in Europa League

Calvin Bassey was one of Rangers' stand-out performers in their aggregate triumph over Borussia Dortmund in the Europa League knockout round play-offs. (Photo by Martin Rose/Getty Images)

Rangers defender Calvin Bassey believes the Scottish champions are capable of beating any team remaining in the Europa League if they can replicate the performance levels of their triumph over Borussia Dortmund.

The form book was ripped up by Rangers in the knockout round play-offs last month when they completed a stunning 6-4 aggregate win over the Bundesliga giants who had been favourites to lift the trophy.

Rangers now face Red Star Belgrade for a place in the quarter-finals, with the first leg of their last 16 tie at Ibrox on Thursday night, and Bassey feels they are a match for anyone in the tournament.

“100 per cent,” said Bassey. “We’ve got a good bunch of boys, very enthusiastic - everyone is full of energy and always wants to do well.

“So I don’t see why we should look at ourselves below anyone else. If we perform at the same level we did against Dortmund, we have a real chance.

“Obviously we know we are coming up against a strong opponent, a good team. But we are a good team as well. We are going to give our best and hopefully come away with a good result to take to Belgrade.”

Bassey is relishing his own progress under manager Giovanni van Bronckhorst. The 22-year-old has become a fans’ favourite in recent months with his displays in both central defence and at left-back.

“I’m blessed that the boss and his staff are trusting me,” added Bassey. “Obviously it’s nice to have the support from the fans behind me. Every day I just try to get better, keep improving.”

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