Rangers must be in seventh heaven after entering the international break with a two-point lead at the top of the Premiership standings over their bitter rivals Celtic. They are desperate to draw an end to the Hoops’ decade of monopoly, but Barry Ferguson, the former Bears great, has urged the fans not to go overboard right now with a lot to play for in this campaign.
A defeat to Celtic at Ibrox made the supporters annoyed and anxious last month, but a couple of unforeseen outcomes from Lennon’s men against Hibernian and Livingston have changed the complexion of the title race for the time being. The champions settled for a stalemate versus the Hibs and suffered a shocking 2-0 defeat at the Tony Macaroni Arena against Livi.
“The roles have been reversed during this international break and I’ve had Rangers fans jumping about because they’re two points clear at the top. I’m trying to tell them to calm down and tell them it’s two points and not 12! Look, I’d much rather be two points clear than two points behind but everyone has to relax.”
Ferguson penned in The Daily Record citing Celtic as the ‘favourites’ to conquer the league glory for nine times in a row.
Why Rangers Must Stay Grounded And Focused To Stretch The Margin
The Light Blues have not dropped a point in the league barring the Celtic game. However, Steven Gerrard’s men must concentrate on their upcoming fixtures over being cocksure and conceited. Sheyi Ojo was blasted by Ferguson for the ‘best in Scotland’ claim and the Old Firm clash was one such instance of how overconfidence could spoil the party in no time.
The Bhoys lost a few key individuals this summer but are well equipped as well as experienced having been successful in retaining the core beyond the transfer window. Moreover, it is highly improbable to maintain the rhythm all throughout the campaign and therefore, teams must go game by game to avoid sudden slip-ups.
What Might Derail Their Campaign
Rangers, right now, are flying high under Gerrard even though the transition is still in progress following an array of summer signings. Jermain Defoe and Alfredo Morelos are in exquisite form while spearheading the Gers attack, but the growing interest in the Colombian might eventually lead to a winter transfer.
This would be a massive blow in their pursuit of league dreams and the club must convince the striking sensation to stay at least until the completion of the ongoing term to attain the season objectives.
