Every game is a big game for Rangers at the moment with Kilmarnock providing the opposition in what could be a pivotal moment in the title race.
Derek McInnes knows how to set a team up and, as always, Rugby Park will be a difficult place to go as Gers boss Philippe Clement makes his first visit.
As always though, the gaffer is fully focused on his Rangers squad and what it is capable of, however, he is fully aware of the threat that Kilmarnock poses.
Rangers face tough test with Kilmarnock trip
It’s not just the pitch.
The surface is the same for both teams and Rangers have their own at Auchenhowie, it is what it is.
Kilmarnock have some good players and, but for Lawrence Shankland, make a clear case for having the best squad outside of Rangers and Celtic.
Greg Stewart, Matt Kennedy, Danny Armstrong, Kevin Van Veen and Gary Mackay-Steven, all players who can cause problems if given the time and space.
A good blend of experience and pace.
Clement knows what to expect and, speaking in his pre-match press conference, he has been full of respect for the team sitting fourth in the Scottish Premiership:
“The guys are focused and they know they need to adapt to other circumstances. They have respect for the opponent also, about how they are doing things.
“If I am right, in six Old Firm games this season they have won three, one draw and two losses.
“One time against us at Ibrox, that one I remember.
“We are going to go there full focus but it is one of those dangerous moments.”
Clement is right, their record against Old Firm opposition must be as good as any team has had in modern memory.
At Rugby Park, they are an especially tough nut to crack.
With 10 consecutive wins in 2024 though, Rangers have proven to be no pushovers themselves and Clement’s quip about the last time the two sides met didn’t miss the mark.
This is a different Rangers.
Clement has to ensure that Rangers give Kilmarnock respect but make them worry about us, not the other way around.
