Rangers might be languishing this season domestically, but it doesn’t stop the Ibrox giants’ last five years of European merit earning Michael Beale’s men a place in the top 30 clubs of Europe, with Old Firm rivals Celtic miles behind in 56th.

Among the elite clubs of Europe, Rangers, thanks to five seasons of outstanding European points and coefficient accrual, have the likes of Champions League semi-finalists AC Milan behind them, along with Champions League victims PSV and former Europa League conquerers Young Boys.

Celtic are miles off in 56th, with seasons of non-activity and early exits being the heart of their European exploits, sharing their spot with Istanbul Basaksehir, while Rangers share theirs with Champions League surprise package Club Brugge.

Of course, Rangers fans (and probably Celtic ones too) will point at the here and now and focus on why this doesn’t matter, but of course, financially it does, after a report from swiss football ramble confirmed Rangers have netted double from Europe (£20M) what Celtic did, thanks to our European adventures the past year.

Yes, our Champions League campaign was a travesty, as was Celtic’s, but in rare defence of both clubs this was the first time back at that level for half a decade in one club’s case, and a full decade in another’s, so both UCL farces can’t be taken that seriously. Neither club, especially Rangers, was prepared for that level and Rangers in particular were very naïve.

But nevertheless, our Europa League achievements were deeply impressive, for four years, and it earns Rangers a place among the top 32 clubs in Europe.

Fans would claim that’s farcical, but it’s also factual. For example, Milan, the Rossoneri, have been absolutely horrific in Europe for 10+ seasons as well, the Italian giants struggling with a massive fall from grace after once being the powerhouses of Europe. And they are below Rangers, having achieved so little at this level till this season.

And then there’s Liverpool – titanic at this level for so long, including two Champions League titles, and a host of being among the best in the UCL, so deservedly fourth, DESPITE having a horror domestic season this campaign.

So it’s accurate to the level for sure. And Rangers are among the best. Hopefully our performances next season reflect that.