This video can not be played
Highlights: Rangers 3-0 Viktoria Plzen
Brian Laudrup’s name was perhaps an unexpected comparison when discussing Rangers’ wingers following the 3-0 victory over Viktoria Plzen.
Former Rangers midfielder Derek Ferguson acknowledged it was premature to suggest Djeidi Gassama or Oliver Antman could replicate the iconic Dane’s impact at Ibrox.
However, the comparison highlighted the impression the dynamic wingers made on him and Rangers fans, as they dismantled the Czech side in the Champions League third qualifying round first leg.
Gassama has made a significant impact since joining from Sheffield Wednesday.
His two impressive goals, one in each leg, were instrumental in Rangers overcoming a challenging tie against Panathinaikos and clearing the first hurdle on the path to the Champions League.
With Antman offering similar pace, footwork, and goal-scoring ability on the opposite flank just a day after joining, Rangers appeared to have found a new level.
“I can’t remember the last time Rangers had two electric wingers on the pitch at the same time,” said former Ibrox midfielder Andy Halliday on Sportscene. “For such a long period of time, it’s been such a problem for Rangers.”
Play-off round in reach as Rangers sweep aside Plzen
Antman will add ‘new dimension’ to Rangers
Latest Rangers news, analysis & fan views
This video can not be played
Gassama heads in third for Rangers against Plzen
Antman left his mark on the game during his Rangers debut.
The Finnish winger, signed from Go Ahead Eagles after scoring six goals and providing 15 assists in 32 games last season, was unlucky not to score when his goal-bound effort was blocked on the line.
He was brought down in the box following a surging run, resulting in a penalty converted by Cyriel Dessers.
His precise cross allowed Gassama to head in the third goal, giving Rangers a significant advantage in the tie.
“I think you can see why we wanted to sign him,” said Rangers head coach Russell Martin of the 23-year-old, who has agreed to a four-year contract.
“He’s eager, willing, very competitive, and possesses moments of genuine quality.”
Gassama’s performance also garnered praise from the head coach.
The Mauritania-born 21-year-old has now scored four goals in as many games since joining from Sheffield Wednesday in July, accounting for 50% of his total from 47 matches last season.
Three of these goals have come in the Champions League, making them even more valuable to the Ibrox club given the potential financial rewards on offer.
“We discussed the need for goals from winger-to-winger plays, and Gassama is really stepping up in terms of intensity, showing a strong desire to score,” Martin added.
“We showed him several clips when we signed him, highlighting instances where he ended up too far from goal. He’s absorbed the information exceptionally well.”
This video can not be played
Antman ‘had a bit of everything’ – Sportscene analysis
Former Rangers winger Peter Lovenkrands:
“Antman has shown fantastic promise. He’s looking very, very exciting and he has a bundle of pace. And I love how Gassama attacks the back post.
“I love watching two wingers running in behind and they can make a fantastic partnership. It will definitely get fans out of their seats.”
Former Rangers midfielder Andy Halliday:
“I was so impressed with Antman. He had everything. His work rate was excellent and he did a great job.
“You can already see why he got so many assists last season. He doesn’t just drive it into the box, he tries to pick players out.
“Gassama is direct, quick and great 1v1. He was a constant threat and caused defenders a lot of problems.”
Former Rangers midfielder Derek Ferguson:
“The wingers gave Rangers an injection of pace in the final third that was clearly missing against Motherwell.
“Antman was sensational. He’s very direct and lightning quick and I can’t remember him giving the ball away. His decision making was spot on.”
Former Rangers forward Steven Thompson:
“The penetration Antman has brought to this side has been absolutely brilliant. What an impact. They just look so much more dangerous.”
Send us your views on Rangers