Rohl demands ‘hot heart and smart mind’ for Rangers in Celtic clash
Danny Rohl demands ‘hot heart and smart mind’ for Rangers in Celtic clash
Rangers manager Danny Rohl has challenged his players to approach Sunday’s pivotal Scottish Premiership derby against Celtic with a mix of passion and tactical intelligence.
The Ibrox club are currently locked in a three-way title battle involving league leaders Hearts and their upcoming opponents.
Derek McInnes’ side currently sit four points clear at the summit of the table, intensifying the pressure on the chasing Glasgow giants.
Rangers occupy second place with a slender two-point cushion over Celtic, though the defending champions possess a game in hand against Aberdeen.
Tactical balance required
The German head coach, who successfully oversaw a 3-1 victory at Celtic Park in January, is confident his squad is prepared for the occasion.
Rohl believes maintaining composure is just as vital as aggression in the heated atmosphere of the derby.
“We are ready. Do it with a hot heart and a smart mind,” said Rohl.
“If we do this then we have a big chance, we have a clear idea of what we want to do.”
The Rangers boss insists his side have identified specific tactical solutions to hurt their city rivals.
Resilience and recent form
While the Parkhead outfit have struggled recently, suffering a home defeat by Hibernian, the hosts have displayed significant character.
Rohl’s men recovered from a two-goal deficit to salvage a 2-2 draw at Livingston last week, following a 4-2 comeback victory over Hearts the previous weekend.
“My team showed character, big personality in the last couple of weeks,” Rohl added.
“I feel the confidence, I feel the belief. It’s not just about the shape and the tactic, but it’s also about how we go in duels.”
The manager emphasized that the spirited reaction to falling behind at Livingston has kept the squad’s momentum “on fire” heading into Sunday.
The title race picture
Sunday’s fixture marks the third league meeting between the sides this season, with a Scottish Cup clash also looming at Ibrox the following week.
Despite the magnitude of the game, Rohl was keen to stress that the result will not be mathematically decisive.
“It’s a crucial game, but no team will be out after this game because there are still 27 points you can take,” the German explained.
“It’s a crucial one because when you come closer and closer to the end of the season and there is more and more in, then you know every game is important.”