Beasley thinks Rangers can be CL force

While teams like Arsenal and Celtic will be fighting for a spot in the Champions League on Wednesday, others, like DaMarcus Beasley's Rangers side, are already booked for a spot.

Though he is no longer a regular member of the Scottish giant's regular starting team, the American winger has been in the thick of European competition in the past and thinks his current team could be a powerful force in this year's Champions League.

Speaking to Scottish broadcaster STV, Beasley said nobody wants to come to Scotland to play Rangers in front of the Ibrox faithful.

"Look what happened when Barcelona came to Ibrox a couple of years ago," Beasley said. "We drew 0-0 with them and both the team and the fans made it hard for them on the night. So with the supporters behind us we'll be fine."

Beasley points to experience as one of the major reasons why this Rangers side could be such a tough out.

"A lot of players like myself and Pedro Mendes know all about the Champions League and the expectations involved," he said. "Some of the guys from the UEFA Cup final side are still here, so we know what to expect and we'll be ready."

The Champions League not only offers players a chance to shine against some of the best competition in the world, but could offer the struggling winger a few extra chance to get on the pitch and prove his worth. But Beasley knows that a good draw for the group stage could help his chances of finding some much needed playing time.

"Europe tends to bring out the best in players and we are really excited about it," Beasley said. "Maybe we'll get a good draw and hopefully I'll get a chance to play."