Rangers huge psychological title race bonus on cards against Lawrence Shankland and Hearts
Rangers can give themselves a “huge psychological bonus” if they continue their 12-year winning streak against Hearts at Ibrox, says Peter Martin.
Speaking on PLZ Soccer’s The Football Show on 23 February the host suggested that Celtic playing a day later hands the Light Blues a major opportunity in potentially opening up a five-point lead at the top with a win over the Jambos on 24 February.
Ex-Gers captain Lee McCulloch agreed that it can put more pressure on the struggling Hoops by going first and getting a result, saying that he would always choose to be playing that way around.
Alan Rough believes it is a “big ask” for Steven Naismith’s side to go to Glasgow and win despite their strong form, claiming Lawrence Shankland has to come up with something if they are to have a chance, while Tam McManus agreed that if Rangers keep the heavily-linked striker quiet they will win.
Rangers can stretch lead on Celtic at top of SPFL
With Todd Cantwell revealed to be the latest in the ongoing conveyor belt of Rangers injuries just as the hump of going top was cleared Philippe Clement will have to be doubly-clear about avoiding complacency.
A visit from Hearts on paper is a good result to have next up because of the record, but they are also in good form having won all eight of their games played in 2024.
They are a long way clear in third place in the league for a reason and the last thing the Light Blues want to do is open the door again for Celtic just as they are apparently imploding behind the scenes.
Going more points clear would indeed have the opposite effect at this stage, so it is a key opportunity to take advantage of.
The Shankland factor adds an extra element given the potential for Rangers to still be interested in signing him in the summer, and he potentially looking to convince them he is worth it, but while Clement insists he won’t game plan specifically for the Hearts captain he will need to pick a side to keep him under wraps.
In other Rangers news, an Ibrox star has responded to questioning from Tom English over a confrontation with a Gers supporter.
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