Danny Röhl has insisted he will not lose patience with his group of players – but he will lose tolerance for underperformance.
Following the 0–0 draw with Falkirk, the Rangers Head Coach delivered his firmest message yet on internal competition and accountability.
“I never lose patience,” Röhl said, “but opportunities will be less because it’s about performing.”
It was a pointed remark after another inconsistent showing from several individuals – including Thelo Aasgaard and Bojan Miovski – both big money summer signings yet to impress.
Röhl spoke openly about the “rollercoaster” nature of the squad, with players taking strides forward one week only to dip sharply the next.
“We have too many ups and downs,” he said.
“Some players make a step and then take a step back.
“We’re not consistently at the highest point.”
The inconsistency has forced Röhl to accelerate his assessments as he approaches his seventh week in charge.
He now feels he has a “clear picture” of what is missing in the squad – and who is meeting the standard – and is ready for the January transfer window.
The German Head Coach stressed that some positions have strong competition, while others are weakened by injuries, which has bought certain players more time than they might otherwise have received.
But that leniency will not last forever.
“Some players have used their opportunity, some couldn’t,” Röhl said.
“Then you look at what opportunities you have and you take the next one. That’s football. It’s about competition.”
Nedim Bajrami came in from the cold and was one of very few to perform to the standard required and expected from a Rangers player.
Others such as Miovski and Max Aarons both continued to underperform and frustrate the fanbase who had been so excited by their signings in the summer window.
January recruitment will strengthen his ability to rotate more ruthlessly, but Röhl made it clear that current squad members are still responsible for proving they belong in his long-term plans.
He also reiterated that while he always reflects on what he could do better after every match, players must show the same accountability.
In essence: the door is open, but it’s narrowing.
Perform, or step aside for those more capable and more willing.
Rangers have the chance to get back to winning ways mid-week - with a trip to Dundee United on Wednesday evening up next for the Light Blues.