Rangers continued their pre-season preparations with a week-long training camp at St. George’s Park, the state-of-the-art England National Team base in Burton-on-Trent.
The week concluded with a behind-closed-doors friendly against English League One side Barnsley, managed by former Ibrox transfer target Conor Hourihane.
While only limited highlights were released via the club’s official channels, the six-minute YouTube package offered a few valuable insights into how Russell Martin's side is shaping up ahead of the new campaign.
Here are five things we learned:
Findlay Curtis Looks Like a Real Prospect
It’s clear that young Findlay Curtis is being integrated into Russell Martin’s plans, and from what we’ve seen so far, he looks ready to make an impact.
Comfortable on the ball and composed in his decision-making, the youngster doesn’t look out of place among the senior squad.
It’s early days, but he’s showing encouraging signs that he can contribute this season, especially under a manager with a track record of developing youth following some promising cameos under Phillipe Clement and Barry Ferguson last term.
Striker Depth Remains a Concern
Danilo’s goal was a tidy finish and a reminder of his quality, but the Brazilian still looked short of sharpness and missed several presentable chances.
With Hamza Igamane and Cyriel Dessers both potentially heading for the exit, Rangers may find themselves light up front.
If Danilo can rediscover the explosive form he showed when Clement first arrived, all the better – but for now, he still appears to be in second gear.
Meanwhile, Kieran Dowell’s involvement at the camp suggests he’s been handed a lifeline under Martin, unlike the likes of Jose Cifuentes, Leon King, Clinton Nsiala, Robin Propper and Ben Davies, who remained in Glasgow and look set to move on.
High Line Has High Risks
One of the more noticeable tactical features was Rangers' high defensive line. While it did force Barnsley into several long-range efforts, a slack pass late in the match led to a one-on-one and a simple concession.
The balance between pressing high and protecting against counterattacks will need refining, especially with European qualifiers looming.
The cutback vulnerability, a recurring issue in recent years, hasn’t been entirely solved either, although Jack Butland’s commanding presence helped mop up danger on several occasions.
Signs of a Clear Playing Style
Russell Martin’s blueprint is beginning to emerge. Rangers played with more fluency and intent, focusing on quick one-touch combinations and building out from the back.
While some long balls were still used, they were clearly part of a pattern and the runs were timed with more intelligence rather than hopeful punts.
Danilo’s goal, coming from a clever cutback, was a good example of the kind of move Martin will want to see replicated regularly.
The Away Kit Might Already Be a Cult Classic
It wouldn’t be pre-season without some chat about kits, and Rangers’ new away strip is already drawing favourable comparisons.
Echoing the iconic white kits from 1985–88, 1990–92, and the 2000/01 campaigns, not to mention the 2008/09 double-winning season, this one feels like a ready-made classic. If the performances this season match the aesthetics, fans will be wearing it proudly for years to come.
Pre-season is rarely about results; it’s about systems, fitness, and signals.
The early signs under Russell Martin are encouraging, with a clearer tactical identity beginning to form.
The blend of youth involvement, a shift in playing style, and glimpses of attacking promise offer optimism.
However, the lack of cutting edge up front and the defensive risks from a high line are areas that need urgent attention if Rangers are to start the season strongly.
Rangers will now return to Scotland, where they’re expected to play further behind-closed-doors friendlies, including one against Neil Lennon’s Dunfermline Athletic, before facing Greek side Panathinaikos in their UEFA Champions League second qualifying round tie on July 22.
There’s still work to be done – but the direction of travel is at least becoming clearer.