Ryan Naderi and Rangers’ winter arrivals are set for a baptism of fire when they experience their first Old Firm derby against Celtic in the William Hill Premiership on Sunday.
Barry Ferguson believes Naderi, along with Andreas Skov Olsen, Tochi Chukwuani and Tuur Rommens, will be stunned by the intensity of the 1 March clash at Ibrox. The former Rangers interim boss has urged the new signings to embrace the occasion rather than be overwhelmed by it.
With Hearts sitting four points clear at the top of the table, victory over Celtic could prove pivotal in the title race for the Light Blues.
A unique experience for Rangers’ new boys
Celtic’s campaign has unravelled in dramatic fashion. Brendan Rodgers’ resignation created instability at Parkhead, leading to Martin O’Neill stepping in on an interim basis following Wilfried Nancy’s disappointing spell in charge. However, there is only so much short-term management can achieve.
Despite Rangers being held to a 2-2 draw by Livingston at Almondvale, confidence remains high ahead of the derby. Danny Röhl’s side have risen to big occasions in recent weeks, particularly at Ibrox, and will believe they can strike another blow to their rivals’ title hopes.
Ferguson insists the atmosphere alone will be unforgettable for the newcomers.
“Trust me, some of the new lads won’t have experienced anything like this,” he said. “They should savour every second.
“Chukwuani, Rommens, Skov Olsen and Naderi will be blown away. But they must embrace the madness and thrive on it because they won’t feel that level of intensity anywhere else. Feed off it. Take in the energy from the stands and let it drive you.”
Röhl likely to back Chermiti again
While the focus will be on Rangers’ January signings, Danny Röhl also faces selection decisions.
Supporters were frustrated when Youssef Chermiti started against Hearts at Ibrox, but the striker responded emphatically with a hat-trick in a 4-2 win. Although he struggled to make an impact in the draw with Livingston, his record in major fixtures may convince Röhl to stick with him for the derby.
Six of Chermiti’s seven league goals have come against Hearts and Celtic, underlining his ability to perform in high-pressure matches. Röhl could also consider pairing him with Naderi as Rangers look to make a decisive statement in one of the season’s defining games.
Whether Chermiti can once again deliver on the biggest stage remains to be seen, but Sunday’s showdown in Govan offers another opportunity for Rangers’ new and established stars to make their mark.
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