Derek McInnes has outlined a clear transfer strategy at Rangers, stating the club will 'exhaust' their targets until they receive a definitive yes or no. The Ibrox boss, who took over a month ago, is preparing for his first public outing with the team as they host St Etienne in a friendly on Wednesday night.
McInnes on Transfer Approach and Squad Building
Speaking about the recruitment process, McInnes said: 'We've got a clear plan of what we're trying to do. Sometimes you can't always get what you want. But you keep exhausting certain targets until it is a yes or a no and you move on.' The manager is working closely with chief executive Jim Gillespie, who is pushing ahead with moves for Partizan Belgrade's Vanja Dragojevic and Tromso's Jens Hjerto Dahl.
Rangers have already made six signings this summer, and more are expected before the competitive season kicks off at Tannadice on July 31. McInnes is focused on adding attacking flair to a squad that has already stiffened its defensive spine.
Pre-Season Progress and First Friendly
After a training camp in Benidorm, McInnes has brought his squad back to Glasgow for fine-tuning. The friendly against St Etienne will offer the first glimpse of his tactical plan. A final warm-up match against West Ham follows on July 26.
Reflecting on his first month, McInnes said: 'It's been good. It's been full on as you'd expect. Pre-season does that anyway. It's a test for the players and a test for the staff.' He emphasised the importance of building connections with players during the away camp, allowing for one-to-one chats and team bonding.
Return of Familiar Faces
Off the pitch, Rangers have brought back former players in staff roles. Allan McGregor has returned as goalkeeping coach after a 12-month absence, while kitman Jim McAllister is set to rejoin to assist David MacGregor. McInnes insisted these appointments are based on merit, not affiliation: 'I think what you always want in any position is the best man for the job. For me, that's so important.'
McInnes, a boyhood Rangers fan, acknowledged the pressure that comes with the role: 'I'm well aware of my responsibility and what needs to be done here. I feel the burden and the weight of that.' He stressed that results will ultimately determine his success, saying: 'Nobody's really judging you at the minute. But I know that at this club, you're judged on your results.'
