Rangers have been told their UEFA Cup away leg against Werder Bremen must be played on the Thursday before the CIS Insurance Cup final.The unwelcome scenario for Rangers was confirmed on Monday afternoon, with the Ibrox club having lobbied to have the last-16 game played on the Wednesday.

Instead it will go ahead in Germany on Thursday, March 13, leaving Rangers with little time to prepare for their Hampden date with Dundee United on Sunday, March 16.

Bremen fixed the tie for the Thursday to suit their television coverage deal, and the evening match will kick off less than 72 hours before Rangers line up in Glasgow for the Scottish season's first major final.

More Football News from TEAMtalk