LEE McCulloch says he’s anticipating an exciting encounter as Rangers square off against Manchester United in a pre-season friendly at Scottish Gas Murrayfield this summer.
The Light Blues have been invited by the 20-time Premier League champions to compete in an exciting head-to-head on Saturday July 20, kick-off 4pm, as Philippe Clement’s side step up their preparations for the 2024/25 campaign.
Speaking pitchside at Murrayfield this morning to preview the clash, former Gers captain McCulloch commented: “The history of both clubs, the fanbase that both sides have, and the quality on the pitch, I think it has all the makings of a tremendous event.
“It’ll be full, that’s for sure. The atmosphere on the day will be really good.
“It will be two really strong squads, and they’re building it up to be the Battle of Britain already.
“I think in some pre-season games you can play without an atmosphere or against lesser opposition, you’re not really testing yourself.
“But with these games, and the way Man Utd play, it will be a lot about fitness for Rangers.
“And for Man Utd with the way that Rangers play, they will want to test themselves as well.
“It has all the makings for a great day.”
McCulloch was part of the Gers side which squared off against Manchester United in the Champions League group stages back in 2010, which was the last meeting between these two historic institutions.
The Gers earned a creditable goalless draw in Manchester, before falling to a narrow defeat at the hands of Sir Alex Ferguson’s side at Ibrox in the reverse fixture.
McCulloch recalls: “I remember there was a tremendous atmosphere at Old Trafford.
“I was speaking to Wes [Brown] and it was a battle of a game; winning second balls and just trying to create chances.
“It was 0-0 at Old Trafford and then back at Ibrox, the stadium was bouncing that night, and we were unlucky that Wayne Rooney scored with a penalty with ten minutes to go.
“The atmosphere was the biggest talking point. With the history and success of both teams, it’s going to be a really exciting game and I’m looking forward to it.
“I was speaking to Wes about Sir Alex being a Rangers fan, about what his team talks were like and how he knew Man Utd would be in for a battle.
“I remember Darren Fletcher played in those games, so there’s always been a Scottish connection.”
An exclusive pre-sale ticket link for the match will be emailed to season ticket holders and MyGers members this afternoon.