Speaking frankly to Greek media, the experienced Turkish coach acknowledged the tradition and stature of the Glasgow giants but made it clear he harbours no fear about facing them in European competition.
“I respect Rangers, they are a big name in Europe with a great history,” Terim admitted. “But this is not the Rangers of old. I’ve watched their games under Russell Martin, and while they are trying something new, it’s still a team in transition. I won’t cry about facing them.”
The Panathinaikos boss pointed to what he sees as a lack of consistency and identity in the Rangers squad since Martin took charge. While he praised the effort to instil a more possession-based approach, he suggested that the Scottish side still lacks the edge required at the highest level.
“Martin has good ideas, yes, but ideas take time. In Europe, time is a luxury you often don’t have,” Terim added. “We’ll respect them, but we won’t fear them.”
Rangers face Panathinaikos in a high-stakes UEFA qualifier with a lot riding on the result. For Russell Martin, the fixture is another opportunity to silence the doubters and prove his tactical vision can deliver results on the continental stage. However, Terim’s comments will no doubt be seen as both a warning and a challenge.
As Rangers continue to fine-tune their squad during the summer rebuild, Martin will be eager to ensure that his side doesn’t become a scalp for more seasoned European tacticians like Terim — who clearly isn’t losing sleep over the prospect.
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