Rangers players could lose seven pounds in Charleston friendly, says Battery boss Anhaeuser

Mark Warburton’s side will play their first friendly action of the summer at the MUSC Health Stadium as they step up their preparations for the new campaign.

The Gers boss has spent recent days putting his squad through their paces in the South Carolina heat as the Light Blues have combined fitness and tactical work on and off the park.

Read more: Charleston captain Shawn Ferguson relishing Rangers test

And Battery coach Mike Anhaeuser insists it will be a tough night for Warburton’s players in the Palmetto City.

He said: "They lose about two gallons after Level 5 training. They'll lose 3-7lbs depending on the player, which is crazy.

"Yes, I've had people collapse. Pre-season is February so it's not as hot.

“But in the summer if we do a week off then do extra bits, we've had a couple collapse or be sick - throwing up mainly water.

"Hopefully it's really tough for Rangers. It's later in the day so maybe it won't be as hot.

“That's why they're here to help with the preparation for the full season.

“It's great for our players, it's a huge advantage. We train every day and it means our fitness levels are very high in this heat.

“It's an advantage for us but it'll help prepare them and help them through their ten-month season.

"West Brom came last summer, for the first 30 minutes they were fantastic - everything moving and nice and sharp, really going.

“But the last 15 of the first half you could see them slowing down a little and we were able to gain ground. Second-half they put some players in off the bench and that's hard as well.

“It's hard to sit and then go in because you feel the humidity and their players struggled a little bit in the second 45. We were able to have a little more success.

“It wasn't that we played better, they just couldn't run as well. If we're going 60 yards down the wing, it's tough. So it's helpful for them but it'll be helpful for us as well. “