Nigerian defender, Bright Osayi-Samuel, is set to return from injury as Fenerbahc face Glasgow Rangers in a crucial Europa League last-16 second leg tie on Thursday night at Ibrox.
Osayi-Samuel, who recently recovered from a thigh muscle injury, will come up against fellow Nigerians Cyriel Dessers and Leon Balogun, as Fenerbahce aim to overturn a 3-1 first-leg deficit against the Scottish giants.
Rangers took a commanding lead in the first leg, with Dessers opening the scoring in the sixth minute before Alexander Djiku equalised for the Turkish side.
However, a brace from Vaclav Cerny, including a well-executed counter-attack finish, secured a memorable victory for Rangers.
Despite the uphill task, Osayi-Samuel remains optimistic about Fenerbahce’s chances of advancing.
“As a team, we are aware of how important the match is,” Osayi-Samuel said in a pre-match interview.
“When we analysed the first game, we created a lot of chances. If we can do the same again and be more clinical, we have a chance to win.
“Rangers will try to hit us on the counterattack, so we need to control possession and avoid mistakes.”
Fenerbahce boast an impressive away record, remaining unbeaten in all competitions since December 7, with five wins and four draws.
However, their European knockout stage struggles continue, having won only one of their last 11 away matches at this stage, with seven losses and multiple goals conceded in five of their last six games.
On his future at Fenerbahce, Osayi-Samuel hinted at contract discussions, as his current deal expires at the end of the season.
“I had some serious injuries and missed playing time, which was disappointing,” he admitted.
“I really want to play for this team. My contract ends this year, and the club has said they will offer me a new deal. We will see what happens at the end of the season.”
The winner of the tie will move on to the Europa League quarter-finals, where they will face either Roma or Athletic Bilbao.
