During Friday afternoon’s press conference, as quoted by the Rangers Twitter account, Steven Gerrard hinted at a tactical change.
The last time the Gers traveled to Parkhead, the performance was disappointing.
They sat back and let Celtic play. In truth, they were lucky to concede just the once across the 90 minutes.
However, the fixture at Ibrox in December couldn’t have been any more different.
Rangers were first to every ball, won every 50-50 and shut out their rivals.
It looks as though that experience has influenced the manager and we’ll see a different approach this time, at Celtic Park.
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“We expect a tough challenge and game but our focus is on us and what we can do, we felt last time we were there we showed them too much respect and stood off them too much”, said Gerrard, as quoted by the Rangers Twitter.
“It won’t be clever of me to give my gameplan away, but one thing is clear if you stand off good players they will hurt you.
“Last time we played was after a big game emotionally against Ufa, we also had that mental block from past derbies. The last result at Ibrox should help and allow the players to believe.”
Analysis
Gerrard may not have revealed his starting XI or formation, but the basis of his tactics is clear.
This time around, there’ll be no sitting back looking to contain.
Rangers will come out to press and make things difficult and there’s little doubt that’s the best way to go.
Celtic may be well clear at the top of the table, but doubts will be lingering after December’s result.
If the Gers can ruffle a few feathers early on, cracks will soon appear.
https://twitter.com/RangersFC/status/1111607980640874496
