Glasgow Rangers are enjoying their first campaign back in the Scottish Premiership, but how has it gone?
Rangers’ return to the Scottish Premiership has been incredibly eventful to say the least. Mark Warburton’s men have begun to establish themselves as Celtic’s nearest challengers, but the title already looks to be beyond them this season. Here is HITC Sport’s look at their campaign so far, as well as a prediction as to what may be to come…
Start to the season
As mentioned, a quick glance at the league table suggests that it has been a fairly positive return to the top flight for the Gers. However, that does not tell the full story as Celtic already look to have the title wrapped up and the battle for second looks like it could go right down to the wire.
Mark Warburton
Rangers manager Mark Warburton
Things appear to be clicking into place for Warburton after a difficult few months at Ibrox. The signings of Joey Barton and Niko Kranjcar have not turned out how he would have liked at all – though the latter could still turn things around – and the lack of an alternative plan on the pitch has cost them at times. After abandoning some of his footballing principles, results began to turn around and now he is starting to gradually find the balance between style and substance.
Team performance of the season so far
The start of December threatened to be a make or break couple of games for the Gers as they faced Aberdeen and then Hearts. A victory over the Dons was impressive, but it was perhaps the 2-0 win over Hearts that deserves to be held in higher regard, especially as it came so soon after they had been beaten by the same opponents.
Star player
Kenny Miller deserves plenty of praise for the way that he has turned back the years to lead the goalscoring charts in the league, but no player has quite endeared themselves to Rangers supporters this term in the manner that Joe Garner has. His tireless displays have been hugely important to Warburton’s men and he is starting to get some goals under his belt also.
Where to strengthen in January
It is perhaps in defence that Rangers need additional depth. Philippe Senderos has failed to capture the imagination since his arrival and Clint Hill is not the ideal long-term option given his age. A ruthless striker would also be a incredibly welcome addition.
Likelihood of strengthening in January
With the race for second still in balance, it would surely be a mistake for the Rangers hierarchy to not back Mark Warburton with funds.
Challenges ahead
Rangers’ Kenny Miller
The biggest challenge during the second-half of the campaign – apart from finishing second – will arguably be putting enough pressure on Celtic during the final months of the season to send a message to potential summer targets that Rangers have the potential to challenge for the title next season.
Predicted end of season finish: 2nd
Given that they have won when not at their best on so many occasions this season, it is difficult to imagine anyone stopping them finishing second, especially if they begin to show just how good they can be.
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