Derek McInnes has finally landed the job he has always wanted, but the new Rangers boss faces a monumental task in restoring the club to its former glory. The former midfielder, part of Walter Smith's legendary Nine-In-A-Row squad, takes over a team that limped home third last season, winning just one league title in the past 15 years. McInnes will need to wheel and deal in the transfer market, stiffen the spine of a squad that has buckled under expectation, and address multiple challenges. Here, Record Sport examines the five big items in his in-tray.
Stiffen the Mentality
Former boss Danny Rohl and chairman Andrew Cavenagh both acknowledged that Rangers' failures last season stemmed from a soft psyche. With the title in sight after the split, the Ibrox squad wilted under pressure, allowing Celtic and Hearts to overtake them. McInnes was hired precisely because he is seen as the man to galvanise the group. This will require new signings with steelier characters, but he must also use the motivational skills that inspired Hearts' remarkable title challenge last year.
Ramp Up Recruitment
Rohl left a parting gift for McInnes: Lawrence Shankland. The striker ripped up his Tynecastle deal to join Rangers, a stunning switch that leaves McInnes benefiting. However, that is the only new recruit this summer, and plenty more are needed. The squad has only four defenders. Dujon Sterling at right-back has ability but a lengthy injury record, while Tuur Rommens on the left needs cover. At centre-back, John Souttar lost his place late in the season, and Manny Fernandez needs a dependable partner. The defence conceded 18 goals in the final eight games, costing them the title. In midfield, Nico Raskin may use the World Cup as a shop window, while Thelo Aasgaard and Mohamed Diomande could seek moves. Up front, Shankland and Youssef Chermiti offer promise, but creativity on the wings was lacking. Last year's wingers contributed 15 goals, mostly from the inconsistent Djeidi Gassama.
Pick a New Skipper
James Tavernier's departure after 11 years leaves the captain's armband vacant. Jack Butland and John Souttar deputised at times but have not shown the required leadership. Lawrence Shankland, McInnes' captain at Hearts and a boyhood Rangers fan, is the outstanding candidate. He led from the front with 20 goals, nearly taking Hearts to their first title in 66 years. If not him, a new recruit with broader shoulders would be a positive.
Clear Out the Deadwood
McInnes has big calls on several regulars, but some decisions are easier. Jose Cifuentes, Danilo, Ross McCausland, and Clinton Nsiala are returning from loans with no future at Rangers. The priority is to find clubs to free up wages. Nedim Bajrami has never established himself but is hard to shift due to his contract. Lyall Cameron is back from Aberdeen after being bombed out by Rohl; he might get a second chance under McInnes, who wants a Scottish core, but the former Dundee ace must prove his worth.
Get Them Ready
There is no time to waste. McInnes meets his players on Monday for pre-season, then takes the squad to Austria for an eight-day camp starting July 10. Three weeks later, Rangers kick off their Premiership campaign, followed immediately by Europa League qualifiers. They must battle through two rounds to reach the group stage; a slow start could see them miss out. A positive league start is vital. Rohl was brought in after a disastrous start under Russell Martin, and while he improved the side, they were always playing catch-up. Rangers must get among the leading pack from the off and apply pressure to their rivals.
