Manny Fernandez says a post-Europe pep talk from Rangers boss Derek McInnes has given them laser-focus to win Scottish silverware.
The Ibrox club made it three Premiership wins in a row on Saturday by beating Motherwell 1-0 in Govan. Ryan Naderi’s goal capped off a productive week for Gers after two away victories at Aberdeen and Falkirk.
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It put them back on track after crashing out of the Europa League AND Conference League with dismal defeats to Jagiellonia Bialystock and FK Jablonec. But Fernandez praised gaffer McInnes for re-aligning their targets for the season.
Rangers must now concentrate on the league and Scottish Cup, and next week a Premier Sports Cup quarter-final clash with Old Firm rivals Celtic at Ibrox. Fernandez is convinced that McInnes’ men can still enjoy a special season despite their early Euro exits.
Rangers manager Derek McInnes speaks to Emmanuel Fernandez
He said: “Yeah look, obviously we had a bad start by not being in Europe. That was difficult. But the manager speaking to us showed that there’s still three trophies that are available to win. We have a domestic charge that we can still push for and be confident about where we could possibly go.
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“We still have the possibility of doing something great. And I feel like him showing us that, showing us how we need to get the fans behind us – that’s the positivity he’s brought. Also, within the team, the togetherness and leadership within the group is something the manager has given the team.”
Despite racking up their third straight win over Well, McInnes was still dealt a body blow on Saturday.
Skipper Lawrence Shankland faces a length spell on the sidelines after being forced off with a hamstring strain That’s on top of £8 million striker Youssef Chermiti’s absence due to an ACL injury suffered against Hibs. Thankfully for the manager, he was able to add £9.2 million Venezuelan hit-man Kevin Kelsy to his squad on deadline day. And Fernandez admits strengthening their attack, with Kelsy and Algerian winger Badredine Bouanani, could be vital in helping them achieve their ambitions.
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He said: “Yeah, 100 percent. It’s great. On Saturday, obviously Shankland went down but at least we know we have healthy competition coming through. We have a new strikers and also a winger (Bouanani) that will be available soon. So we’ve got players coming in, more competition and more people fighting for a starting slot now.”
