What does Europa League omission mean for Serge Atakayi?

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Rangers announced their Europa League squad this week, with some noticeable absentees. Jordan Rossiter was left out due to his ongoing injury troubles whilst there was also no place for former Rangers captain Lee Wallace.

But one absentee that might have slipped by fans is that of Finnish youngster Serge Atakayi.

Rangers can, of course, pick their B list as well. This consists of young players and included the likes of Andy Dallas, Ross McCrorie and Josh McPake.

However, Atakayi was not included. The forward, who can play as an advanced winger or striker, was left out with Dallas, Matthew Shields and Dapo Mebude included instead.

When Rangers signed the player in 2016 he was tipped for future stardom at Ibrox. The 19-year-old had looked a star with former club FF Jaro and impressed former Rangers boss Mark Warburton enough on trial to earn a deal in Glasgow.

He even had a good pre-season. The winger actually scored the first goal of Steven Gerrard’s reign, in a behind closed doors win over Welsh side TNS.

But his stock appears to have fallen and not being included in the Europa League squad is undoubtedly a huge blow for the Finland youngster.

He clearly has some work to do before winning over Rangers boss Gerrard and becoming a regular at Ibrox.