Chris Sutton has criticised Rangers, declaring them “in a complete mess” following their 3-0 defeat to Celtic at Celtic Park on Sunday, 1 September, in the first Old Firm derby of the season.
Philippe Clement’s side struggled throughout the match, and Sutton did not hold back in his assessment of their performance.
In his latest column for the Daily Record (7 September), the former Celtic striker laid bare his concerns over Rangers’ current state.
“I’d never, ever take the outcome of an Old Firm match for granted,” Sutton wrote.
“I’ve been involved in enough of them to know that strange things can happen. But, as I made my way into the match last weekend, I sensed a lack of edge amongst the punters.
“Clement’s team were bang average and, in truth, Rangers are in a complete mess both on and off the park. That’s not just me saying that, it’s a large number of their own Ibrox faithful.”
Sutton’s harsh words reflect the frustrations felt by many Rangers supporters following their dismal showing in the derby.
It wasn’t merely the defeat that has left fans concerned but the manner in which it unfolded. Rangers looked out of sorts and devoid of ideas, completely dominated by their Glasgow rivals.
Though it’s still early in the season, the signs aren’t encouraging for Rangers. After just four matches, they find themselves five points adrift of Celtic, a gap that may prove difficult to close as the season progresses.
Worse still, teams like Dundee United and Aberdeen appear to be bigger threats to Brendan Rodgers’ side at the moment than the Gers.
The challenge for Clement and his squad is immense, and unless drastic improvements are made soon, it’s hard to see Rangers making a strong title push this season.