Union are still a force
Rangers have been warned not to be fooled by Euro rivals Union Saint-Gilloise’s summer upheaval – as they are still a top team.
Former Newcastle and Belgium star Philippe
Albert insists the chaos that started with the depature of boss Felice Mazzu can’t disguise the fact Union have kept the core of their side.
The Brussels club would have won the league last season if they didn’t have a title play-off system – which resulted in them finishing behind Club Brugge.
Mazzu moved on to Anderlecht and was replaced by his assistant Karel Geraerts.
Union have also lost Belgium’s top scorer Deniz Undav, who returned to Brighton after his loan, and seen eight players depart.
Geraerts admitted last week they urgently needed players for the Champions League clash with Gers.
But Albert believes they still have enough to pose a
real threat and said: “Union were the best team in the league last season.
“Many predict a harsh season for them because they missed a golden chance to win the title – but I don’t see it like that.
“Geraerts stepping up means there’s no disruption as the players know him.
“And if you look at the club, on closer inspection, they have actually kept the spine of their team.
“They have an excellent keeper in Anthony Moris, a leader in defence in Christian Burgess, a tireless worker in the middle of the pitch in Teddy Teuma. They have efficient wingers, especially Loic Lapoussin, and Dante Vanzeir – a striker who may not score 25 goals but who will annoy defences.
“Union could have ripped everything up but have gone for continuity – and that’s sensible.”
Meanwhile, Union have been hit with an injury blow with Japanese defender Koki Machida set to miss both legs against Rangers.
Boss Geraerts said:
“Koki has a hip injury and needs time to heal.”