Mohamed Diomande says Rangers focus is firmly fixed on maintaining momentum as they return to Scottish Premiership duty against Dundee, insisting standards and hunger must not dip despite a demanding schedule.
The midfielder was Rangers match-winner in midweek, scoring the decisive goal in the 1-0 UEFA Europa League victory over Ludogorets, and he believes that result, their first in the competition this season, is another building block in a run the squad are determined to extend.
“We’ve been carrying a good momentum, been on a good run with a lot of wins, and that's why we want to keep going,” Diomande said.
“Today is going to be an important game, we all know that, and we're going to do everything to get the points we need.”
With fixtures coming thick and fast, squad depth has become a key theme. Rangers rotation options have increased following recent additions, and Diomande stressed that readiness across the group is crucial – with the Ivorian dropping to the bench for new signing Tochi Chukwueni today.
“We have a big squad, we have a lot of players that are pushing, to give a lot of caution to the coach to make the first 11,” he said.
“Everybody's ready to be an impact to the game.
“If you're going to start or you're not going to start, we're going to give our best to get a win.”
His goal on Thursday was another example of his growing influence in attacking areas, something he is actively trying to add to his game.
“Yeah, I want to do that,” he explained.
“I want to be in the box more often, and that's what I'm trying to do. And I want to be in the areas where it's dangerous for the opponent. “
Diomande also highlighted the qualities of Rangers recent signings, including Chukwuani and Andreas Skov Olsen, both of whom increase competition and variation in the final third and start for the first time today – two players Diomande has played with before.
“With Tochi, I'm sure you've seen a little bit in the cup game, and he's a player who wants to be on the ball,” he said.
“He wants to dominate the game, and he's good. And also with Andreas Skov, I also played with him back in Nordsjælland, and I think he's a good left foot, and he's going to bring a lot of danger, he's going to take a lot of shots, he's going to take a lot of chances, and I'm sure he's going to be a good help to the team.”
As for Dundee, Diomande’s emphasis was clear: Rangers level matters more than the opposition’s approach.
“I don't really know what to expect, but I think we all know that we expect more from ourselves,” he said.
“I really care what they are going to do, and no matter how they come, they want to play low, they want to press, we're just going to do everything to break them down and score.”
A fast start at Ibrox is part of that plan, particularly with the home support playing its role.
“It is important to try and clear games as far as we can,” Diomande added.
“We know that in the Scottish league, teams, when they play here, if they feel like they can get something, then do have the confidence, but when you score one goal or two, then maybe it will break them down, and then maybe you can score more goals.
“As for the fans, I'm grateful that they are behind us, and they are going to put the pressure on the opponent, and we are going to use that to break them down and to do well.”