Rangers manager Steven Gerrard has said that he is hopeful FC Ufa will resolve their paperwork issues in time so that Thursday's Europa League playoff can go ahead.

The Gers are still in the dark as to whether the match will be played, as their Russian opponents are struggling to obtain visas for their trip to Glasgow.

Ufa are expected to have the matter fast-tracked through the UK Embassy, but UEFA wants a decision made by the end of Monday.

Gerrard does not want a bye into the group stages, however, as he wants Rangers to earn their place in the competition proper.

"I hope they get the visas and I hope they come," he is quoted as saying by Sky Sports News. "We are in a good place, we are looking forward to the game and the challenge and we want Ibrox to be rocking again for another great European night.

"We will see what happens. It is not really for me to comment on. I hope they get the issue resolved and we look forward to the challenge. I can't wait to walk out at Ibrox with it bouncing."

Rangers have already overcome Shkupi, Osijek and Maribor to make it to the final qualifying round.