John Souttar believes Rangers will have to get their European heads on for the challenge of Tottenham on Thursday.
Philippe Clement’s side go into the Europa League clash at Ibrox on the back of a 3-0 William Hill Premiership win over Ross County, where goals from Hamza Igamane, Danilo and James Tavernier captured the three points.
The Gers have 10 points from five European fixtures – the same as Spurs – and after wins over Malmo, FCSB and Nice and a draw away to Olympiacos, they remain on course for a knock-out place.
Souttar accepts Rangers will have to step up a level against their Premier League visitors, whose boss Ange Postecoglou is coming under increasing pressure following a disappointing run of results which included Sunday’s 4-3 defeat by Chelsea.
The Scotland defender said: “Yeah, of course, it’ll be a completely different game.
“We just need to transition to the European style, which I think we’ve done quite well this season.
“We’ve went away from home and got good results against big teams. So I’m sure we’ll do everything we can to do that on Thursday.
“Sunday was a big game, and then we move on to Thursday and it’s about building momentum.
“Of course every player wants to play in the big occasions. So it’s a game I’m looking forward to.”
Souttar believes the comfortable win over the Staggies was perfect preparation for a week that ends with the Premier Sports Cup final against Celtic at Hampden Park on Sunday.
Clement’s side, who are looking sharper in attack with Igamane and Danilo linking well, moved to within two points of second-placed Aberdeen – who have played a game more – and 11 behind their Old Firm rivals in the table.
Former Dundee United and Hearts player Souttar added: “It was important we played like we did and got the win. I think we’ve done the basics well.
“We ran hard, we got second balls.
“So if we do the basics it gives us a good a good platform and a good chance for attackers to win us the game.
“When you have good performances and you get results, the team actually gets better and better.
“So it’s important that, as we’ve got a lot of new faces, we stick to doing the basics, because that’s how you get results in this league.
“Because there’s no doubt we’ve got the talent, especially at the attacking end of the pitch that will win us games, so it’s important you get the platform to do that.”
Danilo is not in Rangers’ European squad but has scored in successive games and is looking to be back at his best after recovering from a knee injury.
Souttar, who has had his own share of injury problems during his career, believes the Brazilian striker will be mentally stronger for his absence.
He said: “I think it’s just a challenge for every player that if you’re unlucky enough to have a big injury, it’s going to test you mentally and physically.
“And thankfully, he’s came through also. I’m sure it will make him a better player.
“You don’t take it for granted. You enjoy every moment on the pitch. And I think we saw that when he scored on Sunday, and during the week, he’s really enjoying his football.
“So I think that’s what it does to you, when you have a time out the game, and then you’re back, you enjoy and you appreciate it.”
