Too often over the last couple of years, Rangers have had a weak mentality brimming through them.
Despite the fact it’s been inadvertent, the club have attracted the wrong type of player for far too long. The likes of Josh Windass and Joe Garner, for example, are two players who didn’t have the attitude to play at Ibrox.
They’re a symbol of where Rangers have went wrong in the past. Signing average players who show any sign of promise down south isn’t the kind of signing that’ll strike hope into Rangers fans.
Now, January is rolling around quickly, and Steven Gerrard needs to start bringing in the right type of character to Ibrox. He’s started well in that regard. The likes of Ryan Kent, Connor Goldson, and Allan McGregor all have the winning mentality Rangers are after.
Winning games doesn’t seem to surprise them, and they don’t pat themselves on the back either. They’re exactly the kind of player Rangers need if they’re to be battling Celtic for the Premiership title this year.
Let’s not pretend any different, Celtic are a good side. They have a strong mentality in their squad, and that’s why they consistently win big games. Rangers need to try and match that, and are getting there nicely.
Most important month in a long time
January, however, is going to be one of the most important months in recent years.
Rangers are at a delicate stage in the Gerrard revolution. Bringing in the right kind of signing is either going to push a title challenge or pull it away from the Ibrox club.
Any potential new signing simply has to come in and understand the demands they’ll be under. They have to be prepared to come to Rangers and win from the get-go on a weekly basis. If they don’t, then Celtic will cruise their way to yet another league title.
When looking at the potential list of January targets, it’s essential that football skills aren’t the only requirement. The mentality needs to be strong, with a previous in dealing with pressure.
There’s no denying the club have managed to sign more leaders this season. There are more men in the Ibrox changing rooms than there was under either Mark Warburton or Pedro Caixinha.
It’s no surprise then that Rangers have improved under Gerrard thanks to these leaders. That must be the route the club go down once more in January.
Any more Windass’ and that title-charge will very much get hauled away.
