THERE hasn't been much that Allan McGregor has been unable to get a hand to this season as he continues to lead by example for Rangers.

But the keeper can't put his finger on the reason why Steven Gerrard's side have been so impressive this term.

Rangers head into their Europa League clash with Standard Liege protecting an unbeaten start to the campaign and with their sights set on a place in the knockout rounds for the second consecutive season.

The 11-point lead at the top of the Premiership is testament to their consistency, while they also have a Betfred Cup quarter-final to look forward to later this month.

McGregor has more than played his part in an encouraging start to the campaign. And the 38-year-old knows standards must be maintained if Gerrard's side are to bring back the glory days that he enjoyed during his first spell at Ibrox.

"Over the three years it has been a gradual improvement," McGregor said.

"That comes with winning games. Consistency is keeping on winning and keeping on winning.

"At this moment in time that’s what we are doing. Does it compare with other teams? Potentially. But let’s not get carried away. It’s still very early. We’re just taking one game at a time.

"I’ve no idea [what the spark has been]. If I knew that I’d have told you in January and in the January before that as well. I don’t think you can put your finger on it.

"Basically it’s down to results. And if you keep winning that’s what gives you consistency and that’s what changes people’s views.

"That’s the only way I can answer that. If I knew the answer I’d be the best manager in the world probably.

"It (the defence) has been pretty consistent although the centre half positions have changed now and again.

"I’d consistency of selection a reason? Potentially. But it’s just good players communicating, doing their job well and getting on with it."

It could be a night to remember for Rangers at Ibrox if they can beat Standard and secure a place in the next round of the Europa League.

And it will be a special one for McGregor as he surpasses Barry Ferguson of 82 Euro outings.

McGregor said: "At the moment I’m just concentrating on the game but it will probably kick in later in life to realise just what an achievement it is. It’s a very proud one. Just to be part of history will be unbelievable.

"I suppose every season you want to do better than the last. I think when the draw was made we’d have taken being in this position. he job is certainly not done yet.

"But progression year on year is just trying to do better than last year whether that’s possible or not.

"First of all we need to concentrate on Thursday night, get a good result and then take things from there.

"Since the gaffer came in we’ve been very good in Europe. When it was drawn it was a difficult group. We knew that.

"We could be in a better position but we can take the positives that we are in a decent position. Standard will be difficult opponents as they showed in the first game.

"We’ll do our due diligence and try and go and do our best as we do in every game."