Rangers backed to chase domestic treble as Celtic schedule advantage emerges

Rangers have been encouraged to take advantage of Celtic’s demanding fixture list and target a clean sweep of domestic honours following their impressive turnaround under Derek McInnes.

The Ibrox side endured a difficult start to the campaign, failing to win either of their opening two league matches before suffering further disappointment in Europe. Their Conference League qualifying campaign ended in a penalty shootout defeat to Jablonec.

However, McInnes has overseen a significant improvement in results, with Rangers winning their last seven matches across all competitions. That run includes two victories over Celtic, giving the Gers renewed confidence as they look to challenge for silverware.

Rangers currently sit two points behind their Glasgow rivals in the Scottish Premiership title race, but former Ibrox defender Alan Hutton believes the team has developed into a much stronger proposition.

The ex-Rangers right-back has backed McInnes’ men to pursue all three domestic trophies, with the club already securing a place in the Premier Sports Cup semi-finals after eliminating Celtic in the quarter-finals.

Speaking about Rangers’ ambitions, Hutton explained that winning multiple trophies is always the expectation at Ibrox, regardless of the team’s form or the difficulties encountered at the beginning of a season.

He said the pressure to deliver silverware remains constant because Celtic have enjoyed sustained domestic success in recent years, making the treble an obvious target for both sides of the Glasgow divide.

Hutton believes there is now a genuine feeling within the Rangers squad that they can compete for major honours, although he acknowledged that turning ambition into success will be a considerable challenge.

The former defender also highlighted the potential benefit of Rangers having no European commitments to contend with for the remainder of the campaign.

Without continental fixtures disrupting their preparations, McInnes’ side can concentrate entirely on domestic competition and attempt to maintain their momentum across the league and cup competitions.

Hutton stressed that Rangers must handle the expectations that come with representing the club, adding that the pressure to win trophies has always been part of life at Ibrox.

Hutton questions Carter-Vickers’ Celtic comments

Away from Rangers’ resurgence, Hutton has also shared his concerns over Cameron Carter-Vickers’ decision to speak openly about Celtic’s performances following their 1-0 defeat to the Gers before the international break.

The American centre-back described Celtic’s approach as too random and suggested the team lacked a clear identity, sparking debate over the club’s tactical direction.

While Hutton acknowledged that emotions can run high immediately after a disappointing result, he believes such concerns should be addressed privately rather than discussed publicly.

The former Scotland international suggested that players should take time to reflect before answering difficult questions from the media, particularly when frustrations are still fresh.

Hutton argued that if Carter-Vickers has concerns about the team’s direction, those conversations should take place with the coaching staff and club hierarchy behind closed doors.

He warned that making such comments publicly can create unnecessary controversy and turn internal footballing issues into a wider talking point.

The criticism comes at a challenging time for Celtic, who are looking to respond to their recent defeat to Rangers while managing a busy run of domestic and European fixtures.

Meanwhile, McInnes’ men will hope their improved form continues as they look to close the gap at the top of the Premiership and turn Hutton’s treble prediction into reality.