Rangers manager Derek McInnes secured a vital Premier Sports Cup semi-final victory against Aberdeen, but the performance has intensified scrutiny on the team's style of play. Despite a 1-0 win, the team's struggles with fluency and midfield control were evident, prompting questions about McInnes's tactical approach.
Winning Ugly as a Default
Rangers fans have historically valued efficiency and results over elaborate play, a trait that defined the club's past successes. However, the current side too often provides a difficult viewing experience. While McInnes acknowledges the necessity of "winning ugly," particularly in cup competitions, the reliance on this method as a default strategy is becoming a concern. The manager is still seeking the right balance for his team, having experimented with various formations earlier in the season, including 4-3-3, 4-2-3-1, and 3-5-2, before settling on a 4-4-2.
This formation, while seemingly cemented after earlier wins against Celtic, has shown an awkward fit in recent matches, notably in a draw against Hearts. The semi-final victory over Aberdeen, achieved via a late Ryan Naderi goal, also highlighted these issues. Aberdeen, hampered by significant defensive injuries, employed a strategy to frustrate Rangers, largely succeeding in making the evening uncomfortable.
Midfield Quandary and Player Integration
Rangers dominated possession, registering 25 shots on goal, though manager McInnes described the fact that only five were on target as "embarrassing." The team frequently bypassed midfield, opting for a long-ball approach to strikers Naderi and Kevin Kelsy. This strategy raises questions about the potential of a midfield setup that could exert greater control and progress the ball through the lines, especially with players like Nico Raskin and Dan Neil available.
The integration of expensive midfield signings Tochi Chukwuani and Vanja Dragojevic also remains a point of discussion. Both players, acquired for significant fees, have seen limited game time, leading to speculation about their future development under the current system. McInnes has been urged to nurture this talent, a task made difficult when they are not consistently involved in matches.
Defining Issues for McInnes
Despite the win, the performance highlighted both the team's ability to grind out results and its remaining limitations. The ability to evolve from simply "winning ugly" into a more fluent and consistent style of play will be crucial. Key questions remain about whether midfielders signed at considerable expense can be effectively integrated, and whether the long-ball tendency becomes a strategic option or the team's primary mode of attack. These issues will likely define Rangers' development under McInnes's management.
