Rangers' grit is back but Michael Beale won't be fooled - Four Lads

Yes that’s all very good Scotty, and let’s not downplay this you magnificent little human, but a Rangers rollercoaster like that will be the death of us all.

I can’t remember a time when with 94 minutes on the clock or just three minutes remaining, we have come from behind to win so dramatically. It’s pleasing and any victory up there is huge. 

However, here is the reality. I am loathed to focus on the negative but it would be remiss of me to avoid it. The performance in Aberdeen confirms what we already know about this squad. It requires immediate surgery, it requires an injection of freshness.

All credit to Michael Beale for two great victories, but he will now realise the job on his hands.

This squad hasn’t taught us anything that we didn’t already know, it requires a lot of work. The goalkeeper plan hasn't worked and Allan McGregor is no longer at his optimal powers. We have to identify a long-term natural successor.

Defensively we are obviously frail. Connor Goldson and Ben Davies looked decent before both were injured, or at least capable of forging a strong partnership. So let’s hope that can click, but another addition is vital.

The midfield is the area that really needs additions, and fast.

The backing of Ryan Jack and admission that a contract may be on the horizon is one comment from Beale that's troubled me. Jack has simply missed too much football during his time at the club. His engine is no longer what it was and every supporter can see it.

John Lundstram isn't at his best while Glen Kamara's form remains a mystery. Steven Davis and Arfield are ageing, overall the midfield lacks a real engine. Renewing Jack's contract won’t help that problem.

A line up, it looks like Malik Tillman is hitting his stride. The American has come up with big moments in all three games (including the Bayer Leverkusen friendly) under Beale. Freeing him up and getting him the ball is absolutely key going forwards. Ryan Kent has also looked sharper and even if it’s not always working for him yet, he's still influencing our attack.

(Image: NQ)

I’ve actually enjoyed our attacking play in the last three games. It has movement, zip and passing which has clearly been worked on to free the full-backs.

But it’s fragile and we can be carved open too easily, that’s the biggest issue Beale has. The midfield is at an absolutely critical point and must be the focus of attention in January.

The manager has won both games after asking this team for a lot more when in a losing position. He said Hibs wasn’t a Rangers performance and gave the Aberdeen display a five out of 10. Beale won't be fooled by six points.

But he deserves credit, at 2-1 down in both games he changed it and both times the side responded. He wanted heart and desire, determination and grit, we’ve had that response. It isn't perfect but winning is the first component of this football club. It’s easier to fix things whilst we are winning.

It sure feels a lot better being on the right side of the past two results than if they'd swung the other way. But let’s be realistic about that challenge, it’s a big one.

Before I go, this will be my final chance to wish all regular readers a very Merry Christmas and happy festivities to everyone and their families. I wish everyone the very best and happiness.

Thank you for reading my weekly Rangers views. It's always great fun!