Nikica Jelavic's hopes of playing for Rangers in the Champions League depend on Aston Villa defeating Rapid Vienna on Thursday, reports BBC Sport. There had been confusion last week when Uefa indicated that Rangers' new signing could play no matter who won Villa's Europa League qualifier.
Boss Walter Smith said: "Hopefully Aston Villa can do us a favour."
Jelavic has already played for Rapid in Europa League qualifying this season and, if his former club beat Villa, they could face Rangers later in the tournament if the Ibrox outfit drop into it via their finishing position in the Champions League group stage.
"It's just something we have to put up with," said the Rangers boss.
"It would be a disappointment for him, I don't think there is any doubt about that.
"There is more involved than just the Champions League, but that's a big part for any player.
"Villa have got the away goal and hopefully they can get the win."
