Athletic Bilbao manager, Ernesto Valverde, has expressed concerns about Rangers striker Cyriel Dessers as a key threat ahead of their UEFA Europa League quarter-final second-leg clash on Thursday. The two teams played to a goalless draw in the first leg at Ibrox last week, leaving the tie finely balanced and setting the stage for a crucial encounter in Bilbao.

Valverde, who is looking to secure a strong result for his team in the second leg, has highlighted the danger posed by Dessers, noting his impressive form and his ability to exploit spaces on the pitch. “Rangers have a good formation, players who play well in the space,” said the former Barcelona coach in his pre-match press conference. “Dessers is constantly running into the space, being a reference player, a beacon for his team. He’s a dangerous player.”

Dessers, the Nigerian forward, has been in solid form throughout the competition, with three goals and two assists in 11 appearances. His ability to perform in high-pressure matches has been evident, as he has scored against top teams like Manchester United at Old Trafford, as well as netting goals in away fixtures against Real Betis and Fenerbahçe.

In addition to his praise for Dessers, Valverde also acknowledged the tactical flexibility and wing play of Rangers, particularly in their use of players like James Tavernier. “Their players from the outside are very well positioned, whether they’re playing James Tavernier in defence or in midfield,” he noted, emphasizing the tactical adaptability of the Scottish side.

Meanwhile, Rangers interim manager Barry Ferguson is closely monitoring the fitness of veteran Nigerian defender Leon Balogun, who was instrumental in the first leg but missed the weekend’s 2-2 draw against Aberdeen due to injury. Ferguson, mindful of the physical and mental demands of the upcoming clash, commented, “If somebody is touch and go, I’m not going to risk them because I need people who can go to war.”

With the tie delicately poised at 0-0, the second leg is set to be a tense and crucial encounter. All eyes will be on Dessers and his ability to once again deliver in a high-stakes European match, as both teams fight for a place in the next round of the competition.