Wed 1 October 2025 16:10, UK

Rangers are set to face Sturm Graz in their next Europa League match, and a problem has already emerged.

Sturm Graz will prove to be a tough test for Rangers as they sit second in the Austrian Bundesliga, and a win away from home appears unlikely.

Russell Martin could make several changes as Rangers aim to build up some winning form, after securing a last-gasp victory over Livingston.

Martin has been criticised for blaming external factors before himself for Rangers’ struggles, and he may already have an excuse at the ready for the Europa League trip.

Credit: Imago

Rangers will face Sturm Graz in Austria as one of three away games this week, but while Martin may be grateful to get away from the Ibrox crowd, there are problems for his team.

The pitch at Merkur Arena, home of Sturm Graz, has now been inspected ahead of the clash, and Martin will be furious.

Despite Sturm Graz’s strong start to the season, conditions at the stadium look dire with regard to the pitch, which looks in severe need of treatment, and could provide a hard playing surface for the visiting side.

Footage shows plenty of patches in the...