Rangers veteran Allan McGregor says he'll savour 'special' European tie

Allan McGregor has admitted he is surprised he is just two games away from playing in the Europa League final.

The Ibrox club face RB Leipzig in the first leg of their Europa League semi-final on Thursday.

Giovanni van Bronckhorst’s side have seen off quality opposition to get this stage of the competition, surpassing many people’s expectations.

“I never thought it was going to happen to be honest with you, McGregor said.

“I have said it a million times and you just take each game as it comes. We have done well and we deserve to be here. I am obviously glad we are here.

“It will be a big occasion for the club, a big occasion for the players and we just need to go and enjoy.”

McGregor was injured when Rangers reached the semi-final of this competition 14 years ago. When asked if he is savouring this moment a bit more because of that, he said:

“If we win, it probably will. It was obviously disappointing last time but it is a different challenge and a wee bit further on in my life. Obviously it will be special, it will be special for every player. To get to this stage of a European competition for the club is massive.

“Probably after the games I try and savour it more with the fans.

“I don’t want to say anything too dodgy here. Even after the game at Hampden, I was walking about savouring the atmosphere.

“It is something that I am maybe conscious of doing now and savouring things more.”

Leipzig, who sit fourth in the Bundeslia, have lost just two games this year. Their star man is attacking midfielder Christopher Nkunku who has netted 30 goals this season. McGregor says he’s not the only player he’ll need to be aware of.

“I think every team, whenever they have a chance to score at that time, it is about dealing with it,” the veteran keeper said. “It doesn’t matter if it is him that takes a shot or whoever takes a shot.

“If you are playing a team in the semi-final of the Europa League, you still need to save it or deal with it.”

McGregor, who turned 40 earlier this year, is in the final year of his contract. It’s not yet known if he’ll continue playing beyond this season.