'We know' - Osayi-Samuel warns Fenerbahce teammates to be ready for Rangers counter-attacks

Super Eagles fullback Bright Osayi-Samuel has urged his Fenerbahce teammates to be more clinical and maintain ball possession as they prepare for their crucial UEFA Europa League encounter against Rangers at Ibrox Stadium.

Osayi-Samuel missed the reverse fixture in Istanbul, where Rangers secured a commanding 3-1 victory at the Fenerbahce Stadium.

In that game, Super Eagles striker Cyriel Dessers played a pivotal role, scoring and providing an assist to give the Scottish side a strong advantage heading into the second leg.

Speaking to Daily Record ahead of the return fixture, Osayi-Samuel stressed the importance of capitalizing on goal-scoring opportunities while being wary of Rangers' counterattacks.

"As a team, we are aware of how important the match is. When we analysed the first game, we created a lot of chances and if we create the same chances again," Osayi-Samuel was quoted as saying by Daily Record. 

"Of course, we know that Rangers will come against us with counter attacks, we know that they will play this game," Osayi-Samuel stated.

The Nigerian international suggested a possession-based approach to limit Rangers' opportunities and increase Fenerbahce's chances of overturning the deficit.

"So we have to have the ball and not lose the ball. That way, we can have a chance to win."

Osayi-Samuel has endured a challenging season under Jose Mourinho, struggling for regular playing time and yet to sign a contract extension beyond 2025.

Despite his club struggles, he has been named in Eric Chelle’s 23-man squad to face Rwanda and Zimbabwe in international duty.

With uncertainty surrounding his future at Fenerbahce, the 27-year-old has been linked with a move away from the club.

Several European teams, including English Premier League side Crystal Palace, are reportedly interested in securing his services in the upcoming summer transfer window.

Adeyemi Adewale

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