Rangers can return to the top of the Premiership table with a win over Kilmarnock on Saturday, and even a temporary stay at the summit would send a clear message to Celtic, according to Barry Ferguson.
Writing in his column, the former Rangers captain said the club's name at the top of the pile, however briefly, would signal that Derek McInnes's side have hauled themselves into the title fight.
Clean bill of health for returning players
Ferguson noted that the dozen Rangers players who have been away on international duty appear to have returned with a clean bill of health, which he described as a welcome surprise given the manager's luck this season.
There was an added bonus on Wednesday when Lawrence Shankland held a press conference and revealed he is on the way back after surgery to repair a torn hamstring.
Ferguson acknowledged that Celtic are likely to reclaim pole position less than 24 hours later, but insisted that is not the point.
Striking partnership and competition for places
He praised the partnership of Ryan Naderi and Kevin Kelsy, describing the pair as powerhouses who bullied Celtic's defence in back-to-back derbies. Ferguson said he expects them to start again on Saturday.
He singled out Naderi for particular praise, noting that less than two years ago he was playing in the third tier of German football and now he is a regular starter for Rangers and won an international cap for the Czech Republic at Wembley on Tuesday night.
Ferguson also highlighted competition for places, pointing to Tuur Rommens, who was first choice at left back at the start of the season but now faces a fight with James Penrice. Ferguson said he sees no way Penrice comes out of the team given his performances.
No changes expected for Kilmarnock
He said he would be surprised if there is a single change to the starting XI that Derek McInnes sent out in the two games against Celtic before the break, provided all players are fit.
Ferguson concluded that if Rangers show the same energy and desire against Kilmarnock, they will see their name back at the top of the table on Saturday night, adding: "That's where Rangers belong. And it's up to them now to make sure they stay there for more than just 24 hours or so."
