Rangers defender Dujon Sterling has warned Hearts that no team in the Premiership can live with the Ibrox side if they perform to their full potential. Speaking ahead of tomorrow night's clash at Tynecastle, Sterling dismissed the idea that a defeat would end Hearts' title hopes but insisted his side are ready to make a statement.
Sterling backs Rangers to dominate
Sterling acknowledged that Hearts, under Derek McInnes, came close to their first league title since 1960 last season. However, the Jambos currently sit eight points behind leaders Celtic and four adrift of second-placed Rangers.
Asked whether beating Hearts could effectively end their title challenge, Sterling said: "I wouldn't say a defeat knocks them out of the title race because, as we saw last year, we were far behind and caught up. We eventually got to the top of the table."
He added: "But I think it puts down a marker to say that we're strong away from home and strong at home as well. We have no fear going into the game. We know what we need to do and we know who we are. It's about being ready and matching everything that comes at us."
Belief driving Rangers' mentality
The defender credited the squad's new mindset to the trust and belief they have in each other. "We know that, if we turn up and we're the right Rangers, nobody can stop us in the league," he said.
Sterling also highlighted the high demands placed on the squad in training, which he said can sometimes lead to "squabbles, fights and stuff, but that's just how it is."
Learning from last season's collapse
Rangers saw their own title hopes crumble last season after losing a crucial match at Tynecastle with four games remaining. Sterling scored that night, but Danny Rohl's side fell apart in the second half.
Reflecting on that game, Sterling said: "What I remember from the last time was we started well. We played well in the first half and dominated. Then it's like something just happened in the second half. They took over, got one back early and then the pressure was on."
He concluded: "But that was last season. It's different players and now it's a different group, so there's no point looking into the past. It's all about what we do tomorrow."
