GIOVANNI VAN BRONCKHORST has called on Rangers to pay the ultimate tribute to Jimmy Bell and clinch a Europa League final spot at Ibrox.

The champions head into their meeting with RB Leipzig in a state of shock and mourning following the sudden death of kit man Bell on Tuesday.

Van Bronckhorst and his players shared stories of their time in Bell's company at Auchenhowie in the hours after his passing as heroes of yesteryear remembered an iconic Light Blues figure.

And the Dutchman knows victory in the semi-final second leg would be the perfect way to toast Bell's legacy as Rangers set their sights on Seville.

Van Bronckhorst said: "I think [Tuesday] wasn’t about keeping the spirits high. We were all very shocked by the news that Jimmy passed away.

"It was a hard day for all of us and I think everyone was really down, as you can imagine. We didn’t do a lot, we were all at the training ground but the atmosphere was very down and still in shock.

"Spirits high? I don’t think we had the feeling that we had to keep our spirits high. We talked about him, we shared stories about what we had with Jimmy, our personal stories.

"[On Wednesday] we look ahead to Leizpig. It was a really big game already but we are all very determined to go out and give everything we can to make everyone proud and especially make Jimmy proud.

"We are back and we are going to try and prepare as good as possible.

"I mean, of course, we are still mourning and still down but I think the character of my players are the best I have seen in any teams I coached.

"I am sure that the character, the belief, the determination will be there. We will do everything to reach the final. I think we will be ready."

Rangers must overturn a 1-0 deficit if they are to see off Leipzig and progress to their first European final since the run to Manchester.

Aaron Ramsey and Kemar Roofe both missed the first leg defeat in Germany but will be given as long as possible to prove their fitness for a historic night at Ibrox.

Van Bronckhorst said: "When they get injured we all knew that they will work towards this game. Of course, I will wait as long as possible.

“But for me the most important thing is that they are physically able to play a part in the game. That is always the deciding factor for me.”