Rangers return to Scottish Premiership duty today, and Jack Butland insists the mood in the squad remains positive as the focus shifts back to domestic matters.
Speaking ahead of the clash with Falkirk at Ibrox, where the team look to make it five wins in a row, the goalkeeper said the team are determined to maintain their strong league form despite midweek European disappointment.
Butland said the mood around the camp is “good,” especially after putting together back-to-back league wins in recent weeks.
“Domestically, we’ve been on a good run,” he said.
“We need to carry that on today.
“Coming off the midweek European game, which we were disappointed with, it’s good that we’re setting that standard for ourselves – but now we need to get back to winning and hopefully we do that today.”
Momentum building in the league
Rangers recent form has tightened the gap at the top of the table, and Butland believes the current stretch of fixtures offers the squad a genuine chance to build momentum.
“I think it just shows you what’s capable and what you can achieve, and how quickly things can change,” he explained.
“We’ve got a really good run of league games now – a busy period that gives us a real opportunity to make up some ground, close the gap on the teams ahead, and put some pressure on.
“We’ve got a great opportunity to do that.”
Defensive injuries creating opportunities
Recent weeks have seen a number of defensive injuries force changes at the back, but Butland says the squad’s depth is designed for exactly these moments.
“It’s part of football – you’ve got to step up,” he said.
“We’ve got a squad with enough players who can fill in. The onus is on every individual to keep performing for the team, regardless of who plays.
“Hopefully injuries stay few and far between, but right now it’s something we need to deal with. It’s also a great opportunity for those stepping in to make their claim.”
Expecting an organised Falkirk
Rangers have already faced Falkirk once this season, and Butland expects John McGlynn’s side to pose another organised challenge.
“I think we’ll get a lot of what we’ve already seen,” he said.
“They’re an organised side, and they’ve taken their opportunities well so far after coming up.
“They’re on a good little run themselves, but we’re at Ibrox – and it’s up to us to make sure we’re at our best. If we do that, I believe we’ll win the game.”