Kuhbauer: Pressure is on Rangers

RAPID Vienna boss Dietmar Kuhbauer insists the pressure is all on Steven Gerrard’s Rangers as the race to reach the Europa League last 32 goes to the wire.

Gers need a win at the Allianz Stadion tonight if they are to extend their European campaign beyond Christmas for the first time since 2011.

However, the hosts only require a draw to escape Group G and Kuhbauer reckons that gives his side the edge going into the final game of their section.

He said: “We are aware of the fact that Rangers have a great team. They don’t play the old style from the past, they don’t play kick and rush.

“But we know we also have great players and that we can score goals. And I think Rangers are more under pressure because they have to win the match.”

But the Rapid head coach shrugged off suggestions he might play for the draw which will see his team through.

Kuhbauer – who confirmed defender Mario Sonnleitner will sit out the clash through injury – said: “It’s too dangerous to play for just one point.”

On the domestic front, Rapid are languishing in eighth place, 25 points adrift of leaders Red Bull Salzburg.

But things have improved since Kuhbauer’s first match in charge against Rangers at Ibrox in October when Gerrard’s side snatched a 3-1 win. Rapid have tasted defeat in just four of the 12 games that followed.

“I think the physical condition of the team is better,” said Kuhbauer. “I think it’ll be a very emotional, a very intense match and whoever manages their nerves best will go through.”