Rangers are almost unrecognisable from the side that slumped early in 2020
Former Rangers star Charlie Miller says Rangers and Celtic have reversed roles over the course of 2020.
Steven Gerrard’s men went into January on a high after winning at Celtic Park on December 29, but by March they were 13 points adrift in the title race following a series of poor results that culminated in a 1-0 defeat at Ibrox against Hamilton Accies.
As the year draws to a close, however, it’s champions Celtic who find themselves trailing by a large margin. Despite appearing to have turned a corner with three consecutive Premiership victories, Neil Lennon’s side are still 16 points behind thanks to their patchy form throughout this season.
Miller made 103 appearances for Rangers and won four league titles. He also tasted defeat in the 1997/98 season, when Celtic denied Walter Smith’s side a tenth successive title, and so is aware of the agony and ecstasy involved in these title races.
With Gerrard and Lennon’s teams preparing to face each other on January 2, Miller has spoken of the extreme change in fortunes that has taken place over the course of 2020.
Speaking in the Sunday Post, Miller said: “I look at both teams right now, and there’s a bit of role reversal.
“Celtic look like the way Rangers were in February and March this year. Rangers are like Celtic after the winter break – rampant, full of confidence and belief.
“If Rangers can come through this run of games, and still have a good lead at the top, then they won’t look back.”
Miller pinpointed some of the players he believes are key to Rangers’ improvement this season, saying: “Kemar Roofe has added something different to the team. Scott Arfield is playing exceptionally well.
“Glen Kamara is right on it, and scored a with a nice finish at St Johnstone the other night. Allan McGregor is a match-winner whenever he is called upon, while Steve Davis oozes class.
“Both have won titles with Rangers, and know what’s required to get over the finishing line. I also would play James Tavernier and Borna Barisic in every single game. I wouldn’t leave them out.
“No experiments. Stick with the tried-and-tested.
“The full-backs are too important to Rangers’ style and formation. They worry the opposition.
“So I’d start with the best available XI for every game, and then make substitutions, and give players a run out when we are two or three up.”
Prior to Saturday’s derby, Rangers face St Mirren in Paisley on Wednesday night.
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