Rangers Aim to Gain Momentum in Old Firm Derby
Michael Beale prepares his Rangers side to face rivals Celtic this weekend in what is shaping up to be a pivotal match in the Scottish Premiership title race.
While Celtic are the favourites to win the league title, Beale recognises the importance of gaining momentum heading into the summer and next season.
The Ibrox club have improved since Beale took over from Giovanni van Bronckhorst, with injury returns strengthening their resilience in defence.
However, goalscoring remains an issue and Beale admitted that Rangers may need to invest in their attack if they are to progress. He said: “It was another 28 shots today and you’re getting seven on target. I think that that’s an area as a team we’re creating a lot but we need to be more ruthless.
“We may need to recruit that in as well, so that’s an eye opener for one or two, because these chances that we’re creating, if we take them then obviously it will push us towards where we want to go.”
Beale has been handed significant funds to spend this summer and is relishing the opportunity to shape the squad in his image.
He said: “There are no restrictions on budget. There is money to spend in the summer – it’s a good amount, I think, for a Rangers manager, compared to what I’ve seen in previous years. I’m really positive about the summer.”
While Beale has inherited the current squad, his positivity ahead of the transfer window is admirable. However, his confidence can quickly evaporate if Rangers fail to get results against Celtic, starting on Saturday.
Rangers legend Barry Ferguson believes Beale will make changes to the team that started February’s League Cup final, in which Rangers’ midfield was overrun.
Nikolas Raskin and Todd Cantwell have shown they can provide Rangers with greater control and creativity in midfield, and Beale should start them to surprise Celtic.
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Defeat on Saturday would increase the pressure on Beale ahead of an important summer. Victory, however, would give Rangers momentum and belief that they can wrestle back control from their city rivals next season.
The Old Firm derby will be hugely significant for Beale and Rangers, regardless of the result. A free hit this is not. The fate of Beale’s reign could depend on it.