Gerrard: 'Everyone is aware of our threat'

Gerrard thinks that Rangers may have been viewed as 'easy meat' during the initial Europa League draw, but after having played well in the competition, he is adamant that his side will no longer be underestimated. 

The Ibrox boss is close to steering Rangers into the knockout stages of the competition, but to do this, they must beat Villarreal on Thursday night. 

Ahead of the home clash for his side, Gerrard said: "There is certainly belief (in the team that we can make it to the last 32). You know, I think we have been the surprise team in this group. I don't think the opposition teams gave us much chance."

He added: "I remember back to the draw. We were certainly the underdogs and I think the likes of Spartak (Moscow) and Villarreal probably saw us as comfortable opposition. So it's credit to my players how well we've played in the competition so far. I think everyone is aware of our threat now, so nobody will be taking us lightly."

If Gerrard's 'Gers' manage to win against Javier Calleja's side, they will head into their final group game in Vienna with a chance of qualifying from Group G. 

But, a defeat in Glasgow combined with a home win for Spartak Moscow, and it will be the end of the road for the 'Blues'. 

Manager Gerrard is fully focused on the match ahead, and knows that if his team apply themselves, they are more than capable of getting the desired result against the La Liga big guns. 

He concluded: "If we bring our A game and max out, I think we're certainly capable. But come the final whistle it's crucial we don't lose. The draw takes it to the last game, to the wire - but we're going to win it."