Derek McInnes has admitted that his start at Rangers was more than slightly rocky, but he is pleased with how the team has progressed after going 11 games unbeaten. A 1-0 victory over Aberdeen at Hampden set up next month's Premier Sports Cup Final against Hibernian.
Admitting a Rocky Start
McInnes was the first to admit the performance was far from vintage, but his side are gaining a reputation for getting results by hook or by crook. There have been bumps along the way, including dropping points away to Hearts and Dundee in recent weeks, but the progress under his management since their early-season struggles is evident.
The Ibrox boss was speaking with Ally McCoist and Jeff Stelling on talkSPORT when asked how he felt after bouncing back from a 'slightly rocky start.' He left McCoist in stitches when he said: "You've underestimated that slightly rocky part I think!"
Building Confidence
McInnes explained: "Whenever you get a new job, it's normally for a reason – things aren't normally perfect at the club. We had lots of work to do but underneath it all, I felt if we came out the window with a strong enough squad, then we could compete. That's where we are at the minute."
"We needed a bit of confidence. The run started up at Aberdeen, we're now 11 games (unbeaten), and we're pleased with what we're doing. There's still a lot of improvement needed. But as Ally knows, at Rangers, we need to keep winning."
Looking Ahead to the Final
On the recent victory, he added: "Saturday was case in point. We were the better team, we created more chances, we look as if we're scoring, but it took us too long to get the winning goal. But when it came, it was a great moment for us, and we're looking forward to the final."
McInnes acknowledged there is more to come, noting: "No team is perfect at this stage of the season, it's still in its infancy. People are so quick to judge and think this is how it's going to be, but it's so early on. There's loads of improvements to come from us but that's the same with most teams."
He also highlighted the youth of the squad: "We're a very young team particularly in the forward line. The stats will reflect that. We could do with a bit more nous and an older head up there just to try and make better decisions. But the potential is exciting and the reach of some of these players is evident. But as we search for that potential, we need to win."
McCoist on Title Priority
McCoist agreed and reckons McInnes should have his eye primarily on clawing the Premiership title away from Celtic. He told talkSPORT Bet Online Casino: "I don't think anything has changed. I think Rangers have got to set out right now to win every domestic trophy they can. You have to be looking to win the league title, that is the most important one at the start of the season for a team like Rangers."
"The cups I always say are a more than achievable bonus, but you've got to get the league title. That is still the priority for me looking at it, and the priority for most Rangers fans right now."
