Derek McInnes will not "panic" following Rangers' nightmare European exit and will still aim to lift the Premiership trophy, according to his former teammate Jody Morris, who was also managed by McInnes during his time at St Johnstone.
The penalty shoot-out defeat to Jablonec in the Conference League playoff brought the club's European campaign to a humbling end. In the Premiership, Rangers have taken just one point from their opening two games, while rivals Celtic have a perfect record at the top of the table.
Morris backs McInnes to challenge Celtic
Despite growing fan anger over the dismal start, Morris insists McInnes still believes he can overtake Martin O'Neill's side and claim the title. Speaking to Genting Casino, Morris said: "It isn't the start Derek McInnes would have wanted, but he won't panic. He has full belief in his staff and players."
"There is no more pressurised environment than managing Rangers or Celtic, where you are expected to win every game. Having Martin O'Neill and McInnes at the top two clubs is great for the Scottish league, it will be fiercely competitive. The only objective for either side is always to finish above the other, which usually means winning the title."
Morris added: "Hearts challenged that last year, which was good for the league. Hearts felt hard done by with some late decisions last season. Derek will be aiming to go one better and overtake Celtic with this Rangers team, let’s see if he can do it this season."
Bookmakers name next boss favourites
Despite the defiant stance, bookmakers have cut the odds on the next Ibrox manager. According to Compare.bet, Sean Dyche is the 11/8 favourite, ahead of a possible return for Steven Gerrard at 7/2. Former target Kevin Muscat is also in the running at 4/1.
Compare.bet's next Rangers manager odds list Steve Clarke and Kjetil Knutsen at 5/1, Barry Ferguson at 6/1, and Steven Naismith and Martí Cifuentes at 8/1.
