Rangers Aim for Stability Under McInnes as Title Race Heats Up
Rangers have begun their season under manager Derek McInnes with a solid performance, accumulating 24 points from 11 matches in the Scottish Premiership. With seven wins, three draws, and only one defeat, the Ibrox side remains in second place, while Celtic has established a four-point lead at the top of the table.
The Rangers’ attacking record boasts 19 goals scored and only nine conceded, showcasing a strong defensive foundation as McInnes continues to mold his team. Ryan Naderi stands out as the club’s leading scorer in the league, netting five goals, while Djeidi Gassama has contributed with three assists. However, a recent 2-2 draw against Hearts highlighted the need for greater consistency to mount a serious title challenge.
Looking ahead, this weekend could heighten pressure on Rangers. Should Celtic win against Falkirk on Sunday, they could extend their lead to seven points, leaving Rangers to focus on the Premier Sports Cup semi-final against Aberdeen at Hampden. Without a league match to help close the gap, McInnes will be monitoring Celtic’s result, aware that his team cannot immediately respond in the standings.
Former Celtic defender Alan Stubbs expressed concerns for Rangers in a recent interview with talkSPORT. He suggested that the Ibrox squad may lack the depth necessary to recover should Celtic widen their lead. Stubbs remarked that neither club currently seems to reflect the dominance of previous Celtic and Rangers teams.
“It’s a big ask if Celtic go that (seven points clear of Rangers). We’ve seen them draw up leads in the past,” Stubbs stated. He pointed out that both squads require improvement, saying, “No disrespect, but they’re not two great teams at the moment… That’s what makes it closer.”
Stubbs added, “I think the last thing Rangers need at this moment is for Celtic to be building a big lead, because I don’t think they’ve got the players potentially to draw it back if Celtic do get themselves in the lead.”
Does McInnes Have Enough Quality to Keep Rangers in the Race?
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND – OCTOBER 24: Tochi Chukwuani of Rangers reacts after scoring his team’s fourth goal during the William Hill Premiership 2026/27 match between Glasgow Rangers and St. Johnstone at Ibrox Stadium on October 24, 2026, in Glasgow, Scotland.
While Stubbs raises valid points, Rangers possess a foundation that merits backing. The nine goals conceded in 11 league matches signal defensive strength, complemented by Naderi’s consistent scoring. Additionally, Kevin Kelsy serves as another attacking option, and the anticipated return of Lawrence Shankland could enhance McInnes’s attacking choices.
However, a formidable starting eleven doesn’t guarantee a title challenge. Factors such as injuries, suspensions, and fixture congestion can quickly expose vulnerabilities, especially when substitutes cannot match the starters’ performance. Positions like right-back and centre-back require attention, particularly with John Souttar’s contract set to expire in 2027 and Ben Godfrey’s loan concluding next summer.
McInnes was brought in to provide stability following challenging seasons, and the board should resist hasty recruitment. The January transfer window presents an opportunity to address potential weaknesses. Rangers do not require a complete overhaul, but they need dependable cover in defense and enough attacking depth to accumulate points when preferred players are unavailable. If Celtic builds a significant lead, that depth may prove essential for Rangers’ title aspirations.
