Derek McInnes Defends Rangers After Hibernian Defeat

Rangers manager Derek McInnes stands firm amid criticism after a 2-1 loss against Hibernian, addressing injuries and team performance.

Derek McInnes remains steadfast in his belief that Rangers are not in crisis, despite trailing behind Celtic following a 2-1 defeat to Hibernian. This loss leaves Rangers five points adrift after just two matches in the Scottish Premiership. McInnes defended his players after the disappointing home result at Ibrox, stressing the need for calm even as the pressure mounts.

After the match, McInnes took to Sky Sports to discuss the state of his team. ‘We’re not as bad as some people will be saying at the minute. And I think it’s important that we just batten down the hatches, stay strong, stay together,’ he stated. His optimism comes despite Rangers’ winless streak extending to three matches under his management.

The match turned frustrating for Rangers when Hibernian were awarded a penalty in the 11th minute. Josh Campbell successfully converted the spot-kick after a VAR review determined that Vanja Dragojevic had fouled Jason Kerr, a call that McInnes vehemently disagreed with. He expressed his discontent with the officiating, saying, ‘I think it was a wrong decision that made us go behind in the first place. I do think the penalty came out of the blue. I hadn’t seen it at the time and I’ve seen it since and I don’t think it’s a penalty kick. I don’t think the referee should be brought over.’

Adding to Rangers’ woes was a serious injury to star striker Youssef Chermiti, who faced a knee issue shortly before half-time. The forward had recently generated interest with a rejected £22 million bid from Galatasaray, demonstrating his importance to the squad after scoring 15 goals last season. McInnes provided an update, indicating immediate action taken by medical staff. ‘He’ll get a scan tomorrow. He’ll leave here today in a boot and a brace. It’s a knee injury of some sort but I think it would be silly to speculate anything until we get the scan results tomorrow,’ he shared.

As the club anticipates Chermiti’s scan results, McInnes and his team are determined to regroup. It is crucial for Rangers to secure their first competitive victory soon to keep pace with Celtic, whose early lead has intensified the stakes in the league. The squad will have to demonstrate resilience and enhance their attacking strategies in preparation for their upcoming domestic cup and league fixtures.