Rangers are facing a critical week that could shape their entire season, according to midfielder Joe Rothwell. After a difficult start, including a 1-1 draw with St. Mirren on Sunday, the team is under pressure to deliver. They now have two major challenges ahead: a crucial Champions League play-off and a highly anticipated derby match.
The Glasgow-based club has had its toughest start to a Scottish top-flight season since 1989. The new manager, Russell Martin, appointed in June, has only secured three wins in his first nine matches. The team must now overturn a 3-1 deficit against Club Brugge in an important Champions League qualifier and then face their fierce rivals, Celtic, in the Old Firm derby.
🛣️ A Defining Week for Rangers
Rothwell believes the upcoming matches are incredibly important. “Wednesday night is a massive game for us,” he said, referring to the second-leg match against Club Brugge in Belgium. A loss on Sunday against Celtic could also see them fall nine points behind the league leaders. Rothwell stressed the team’s ambition, stating, “we want to be playing Champions League football.”
💪 A Call for Confidence
A positive result in Europe could be the key to turning things around. “If we can go there and turn that tie around, then it’ll obviously give us massive confidence going into the weekend game,” Rothwell explained. The 30-year-old, who joined from Bournemouth in the pre-season, feels that a victory could provide the momentum they need for the rest of the season. “Who knows where it can take us, if we manage to pick up three points,” he added.
🙏 Staying United
Despite a recent equaliser from teenager Findlay Curtis against St. Mirren, Rothwell acknowledged that results have not been good enough. He understands the fans’ frustration but has asked for their continued support. “The fans just want the results and we want to give it to them,” he said. “They’re entitled to be disappointed… But we just need them to stick with us and rally together and hopefully then we’re not far away from getting the results.”
