During an interview with RangersTV, Steven Gerrard revealed a change in approach ahead of Rangers’ SPL clash against St Johnstone, at Ibrox.
The Gers played out a goalless draw in the Scottish Cup against Kilmarnock on Saturday.

James Tavernier failed to put the Gers ahead from the spot. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
It was a relatively uninspiring performance, but with a rare clear midweek schedule in terms of fixtures, it looked as though there would be plenty of time to put it right on the training ground.

However, the coaching staff saw it differently.

Extra time off before Saints

They gave the squad two days off after the Rugby Park stalemate.
“We have had a run of games quite close together so it was good to be able to give the players some time off, more for mental reasons just to switch off for a few days”, Gerrard told RangersTV.
“The plan was to have a few days off after St Johnstone, but the replay ruined that for them, so I brought it forward to this week.”

There would have been no need for a replay if the Gers had taken their chances. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
That is an interesting point, as after all, it was the players who took it to a replay. The Killie tie had been there for the taking. It’s also only a few weeks since they benefitted from a substantial winter break.

“We changed the schedule for them really and we have three days to prepare for St Johnstone so hopefully they go into the game really fresh”, continued Gerrard.
Obviously, there’s a balance to be struck between training and rest. The Gers have played six matches in just over three weeks, too.
There has been a reasonably heavy workload since the winter break. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
Therefore, it could prove an astute move to grant the extra time off.
It means there certainly aren’t any excuses for the players come Saturday, though.
If the performance isn’t up to scratch, questions will be asked.

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