Rangers striker Kemar Roofe is looking forward to this weekend’s pre-season friendly clash against Arsenal at Ibrox – and admitted that the Gers’ Champions League qualifying campaign is “massive” as it gives the Light Blues stars the chance to test themselves against some of the best teams.
Gerrard‘s side will warm-up for the new season with games against the likes of the Gunners and Real Madrid before the league season starts on July 31.
The Light Blues then kick off their Champions League campaign a few days later when they play the first leg of the Third Qualifying Round.
While the striker admits it would be good to get wins over teams the quality of Arsenal and Real, he insists the focus is on getting up to fitness ahead of the competitive action getting underway.
“That’s massive and you want to play against the best teams,” Roofe told Rangers TV.
“That’s why you want to play football – you want to be the best and win as many games as you can and win things and play against the best teams, and I think with this pre-season, with Arsenal coming up at the weekend and then Blackpool, Brighton and Real Madrid, we have some good games going on.
“It is all about preparing for the first game of pre-season. Yes, you obviously want to win every game, but the main focus is getting fit.”
The former Leeds and Anderlecht star played a key role in helping the Light Blues romp to the title last season, scoring 18 times in 36 appearances following his Rangers move.
While the arrival of Fashion Sakala will make competition for places even tougher, Roofe is likely to be in the side when the competitive action gets started.
If he can contribute a similar number of goals this season for Rangers, then there’s a good chance he’ll end this season with the title again.
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