Lee McCulloch has praised Steven Gerrard and several first-team players, in his Evening Times column.
The Gers swept aside Celtic in a dominant display at the weekend. Right from the off, they got on top of Neil Lennon’s team, hassling and harrying, as well as showing more composure on the ball.
The dominance was such, that Wes Foderingham only had to make one save across the 90 minutes.
Going forward, McCulloch thinks the victory and the manner of it, will stand the players in good stead. He also singled out three senior players, as having a major influence on the revival under Gerrard.
“Now the players believe they can beat Celtic, and the supporters know that Rangers can beat Celtic”, wrote McCulloch, in
“The win on Sunday was obviously great for the supporters and they will still be feeling upbeat this morning, but it is good from the players’ perspective as well. It will give them confidence knowing that they can beat their biggest rivals.
“You do take that onto next season. There will be more new faces coming in, whether that is loans or buys, and the management will strengthen again in the summer.
“If Rangers keep going the way they are going, they will certainly be title contenders next season and the recruitment is crucial now.”
Verdict
There’s no doubting the significance of the two Ibrox wins over Celtic this season. While both teams will be looking to improve over the summer, it certainly sets a marker down that Rangers mean business.
Furthermore, it’s no huge surprise that McGregor, Goldson, and Arfield are highlighted by McCulloch.
McGregor was suspended for this latest derby victory. However, both he and Goldson have now played over 50 matches this season. Arfield isn’t far off that mark, either.
They are three senior players in the spine of a relatively young squad. Big characters, helping to elevate Rangers’ on-field standards once more.
