Rangers Manager Derek McInnes Delighted by Squad's Hunger After International Break

Rangers manager Derek McInnes expressed his satisfaction with his squad's dedication after the recent international break, revealing that the vast majority of players chose to train rather than take a day off. This decision, McInnes noted, underscored a strong commitment to the team's objectives.

Following a victory over Kilmarnock, McInnes offered his players the option to take Monday off, acknowledging the extensive travel and matches many had undertaken during the international period. However, to his surprise, the players collectively opted to report for training, with only a few absent due to illness.

"They all came in," McInnes stated. "They came in, did the work and did the recovery. We thought it was an opportunity for them just not to think about football, be with their families and all the rest of it. But they all came in, barring one or two who had felt the effects of the bug that was going about."

This eagerness to train, McInnes suggested, reflects a positive buy-in to his ideas and has been instrumental in the team's turnaround. At the close of August, the squad faced criticism for dropped points and European defeats, but a subsequent run has seen them seek a seventh consecutive league win.

The manager highlighted the motivation of new signings to succeed in a new environment, as well as the desire of returning players to atone for last season's late collapse. Dujon Sterling, usually reserved, had previously voiced his frustration about how the previous season concluded, a sentiment that McInnes believes has fueled the team's current drive.

The team's resurgence began with a hard-fought win at Aberdeen, followed by narrow victories against Falkirk, Motherwell, and St. Mirren. The momentum built with a significant League Cup win over Celtic, and was further solidified by a league victory at Parkhead. The return to domestic play after the international break saw a comfortable win over Kilmarnock, extending their league winning streak.

McInnes emphasized the need for continuous effort and focus as the team prepares for its next challenge against Dundee. "We've got to make sure we're maximising the effort and the mindset all the time, ready to go for the next challenge," he said. "The next challenge is just around the corner tomorrow in Dundee and the game is going to need our full attention."

He acknowledged Dundee's strong start to the season, noting their ability to cope with injuries and maintain a consistent system. "Very good," McInnes commented on Dundee's campaign. "I know a lot of the staff there and I know how they work. They look like a good staff and I think they've got a good thing going."

Despite the challenges of injuries, McInnes expects a tough contest at Dens Park, where Rangers have drawn three times in recent visits. "Once the game starts, hopefully we can deliver a big performance," he concluded. "We can't have the performance we had in the second half last week. There will be no reason for that this week. It's up to us to deliver a big performance and recognise that we need to get more. We need to keep stepping on the gas and deliver the big performances we're looking for."