Rangers huge psychological title race bonus on cards against Lawrence Shankland and Hearts.
Rangers can offer themselves a “huge psychological bonus” by extending their 12-year winning streak against Hearts at Ibrox, according to Peter Martin.
On PLZ Soccer’s The Football Show on February 23, the host indicated that Celtic’s upcoming game against the Jambos provides a significant opportunity for the Light Blues to gain a five-point lead at the top.
Ex-Gers captain Lee McCulloch agreed that starting first and gaining a result can put more pressure on the struggling Hoops, and he would always prefer to play that way.
Alan Rough believes it is a “big ask” for Steven Naismith’s team to go to Glasgow and win despite their great form, adding Lawrence Shankland must come up with something if they are to have a chance, while Tam McManus concurred that if Rangers keep the widely associated striker quiet, they will win.
Rangers can extend their lead over Celtic at the top of the SPFL.
Todd Cantwell has been revealed as the latest in the ongoing conveyor belt of Rangers injuries, just when the hump of winning has been cleared, Philippe Clement will have to be extra careful not to become complacent.
On paper, a visit from Hearts is a decent outcome to have next up given their record, but they are also in good form, having won all eight of their games in 2024.
The Light Blues are now in third place in the league and do not want to give Celtic another chance, especially as they appear to be struggling.
At this moment, clarifying more points will have the opposite impact, therefore this is an important opportunity to seize.
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. While Clement insists he will not game plan specifically for the Hearts captain, he will need to select a side to keep him under wraps.
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