Rangers set for Aussie tour

Rangers confirmed Friday they will take part in a pre-season tournament in Australia next month.

Walter Smith’s men will prepare for the defence of their Premier League title by flying to Sydney on July 20 to take part in the inaugural Sydney Festival of Sport.

Rangers have games against Sydney FC, Blackburn and AEK Athens lined up on July 25, 28 and 31 at the Sydney Football Stadium although fixtures have still to be agreed.

The squad return to Scotland on August 2 and a day later host Newcastle in a match which could see Magpies forward Peter Lovenkrands return to Ibrox.

Rangers chief executive Martin Bain told the club’s official website, www.rangers.co.uk: “We are delighted to be heading to Australia as SPL title holders and look forward to showcasing the club down under this summer.

“The club has a loyal fanbase in Australia who will enjoy watching the team in action and we’re looking forward to returning after 26 years.

“We enjoyed a successful tour of Australia in 1984 and this tournament will be good preparation for the 2010/11 campaign.

“We had explored the possibility of a tour of America, however, after considering many factors it was decided not to pursue this further.”