Giovanni van Bronckhorst has left the door open for Alfredo Morelos to return to the squad after Rangers secured their return to the Champions League group stages.
Here's everything the Dutchman had to say in his post-match interview.
How does it feel to qualify?
It feels great to win this game, to hear the final whistle at the end. We achieved what we wanted and that was to be in the Champions League.
You must have experienced every emotion during the game, how was it on the touchline?
I was more relaxed than last week because of the way we played – very controlled. In the first half they couldn’t press us, we found the space. In the second half they changed the system a little bit. Luuk de Jong went out so we knew the aerial threat was less. We became stronger and stronger during the game.
What about the goal? A very mature head on Tillman’s shoulders and Colak was there again.
It was a good performance from Malik. I spoke about him last week, playing against a physical opponent in Sangare and he did much better. You want to come here and find the opportunities to press. We found them in the first half. For the goal we were waiting for the ball to be played. The first touch in football is the most important and Malik won the ball and then his composure and vision to see Antonio. It was a great moment for us. Tom also nearly scored. I’m very happy. The way we played, I couldn’t be prouder.
The fans tried everything to disrupt your preparations, the fireworks and the bus, but the players kept their heads and stuck to the game plan.
Well, you have to. We used it to be ready. We were ready, and when this happens the victory tastes sweeter. I’m very happy with the way we played. It’s a proud moment for all of us.
There’s the prestige of playing in the Champions League, but also the financial reward for the club. How will that impact you in terms of transfers?
Of course it will impact us. As a player and a coach, you’re only thinking about competing with the best teams in Europe. We have the opportunity to do so. There’s many positives to take from this game. I think the club and the board are also happy that we get financial opportunities. We always have good communication in how to spend the money.
Can we expect more new faces before the window shuts?
I don’t know. I’ve said before that anything can happen in the next seven days. But we have to be prepared.
Do you feel vindicated with the Alfredo Morelos situation? Will he come back with the squad or does his future lie elsewhere?
He’s part of the squad. It’s on Alfredo to work his way back into the team. He’s still a Rangers player. He’s proud of the moment we had today because he’s part of it. We have to see in the coming days how it will evolve. It’s a proud moment for all of us and Morelos.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here