Ibrox View: What Lennon’s ‘fake news’ remark says about Rangers
It is no surprise that there is a direct correlation between Neil Lennon’s irritability and the improved form of Rangers.
Ever since Steven Gerrard’s side dispatched Celtic at Parkhead earlier this month, the pressure has been mounting and Lennon appears to be feeling the heat.
Speaking this week, Lennon said (via Sky Sports): “When you go through a tough spell, you hear the theories about fallouts on the training ground etc, but it’s all fake news.
“I sound like Donald Trump now but it’s all fake news. I shouldn’t have to defend myself and don’t feel under any major pressure.”
With Rangers now six points clear at the top of the table and the Hoops two league games without a win, the Gers are on top and now is the time for the Gerrard and his squad to fully capitalise.
With Odsonne Edouard potentially wanting out and summer signings Shane Duffy and Mohamed Elyounoussi yet to fully hit their straps, there is a genuine sense that Celtic are there for the taking.
Rangers meanwhile have conceded just three goals in their opening Scottish Premiership and have already beaten their old firm rivals in the first meeting of the season.
James Tavernier and Ryan Kent have been in outstanding form, while recent additions Kemar Roofe and Calvin Bassey have made instant contributions. Ianis Hagi has continued where he left off last season after sealing a permanent deal this summer and veterans Jermain Defoe and Steven Davis continue to contribute late into their 30s.
One area that Gerrard will be looking for improvement though is up front, with goals being an area where Celtic had the clear advantage last season, scoring 89 to the Gers’ 64 in the league.
Alfredo Morelos has not been at his blistering best so far, with three goals from nine appearances in the Scottish Premiership (via WhoScored), while Roofe and Cedric Itten have only made four starts between them so far.
With 28 goals from 12 matches this is not a big problem by any means, but Gerrard will not be leaving any stone unturned as he looks to finally bring the title back to Ibrox. Lennon has shown that Celtic are feeling the pressure, and Rangers response should simply be to turn up the heat.
In other Rangers news, Steven Gerrard has been warned off a Premier League return by a former teammate.