Glasgow Rangers: Long Limp Ahead

Rangers are proving just how difficult it is to bring home multiple titles. It is a testament to the teams which have won a huge amount of silverware in a season...yes,yes, I am loathe to admit it but, Celtic do come to mind.

The march to the quad has turned into a limp.

Gers entered Sunday's Scottish FA Cup semi-final against St.Johnstone with Lee McCulloch and standout keeper Allan McGregor out due to injuries. They left the game with a 4-3 shootout victory and injuries to Chris Burke and Stevie Naismith.

They face Fiorentina in the first leg of the UEFA Cup semi-final at Ibrox on Thursday, Celtic at Parkhead on Sunday, and the return leg at Fiorentina four days later. Moreover, it being post-split time, all their remaining SPL games are against top flight teams.

Rangers will go into the UEFA Cup semi-final with Kevin Thomson and Captain Barry Ferguson serving suspensions. Add to that the four injuries and they will be able to field only five regular starters. One could be forgiven for writing them off.

On the bright side...opportunity knocks.

Thomas Buffel has spent almost the entire season on the sidelines. He now gets a chance to set aside the pom-poms and prove his worth on the market. Brahim Hemdani and Stevie Davis will also be given a chance to shine.

For players who have been little more than spectators the situation at Ibrox provides the opportunity to share in whatever glory the Rangers achieve this season. It is a chance to see their names on the silverware and know they played a very real part in the accomplishment. It's a matter of pride. Let's hope they can rise to the occaision.

Remember, Rangers have looked to be up against it at other times this season but, have come through. This may be their toughest test yet, however, overcoming adversity is what being a champion is all about.

C'mon Gers...the glory is up for grabs. Are you READY?