Rangers have firmly hauled themselves back into the Scottish Premiership title race, closing the gap on surprise leaders Hearts to just three points. However, despite a remarkable turnaround in form, head coach Danny Rohl insists his side are only at the beginning of their journey and still falling short of where he wants them to be.
A convincing 2-0 victory over Aberdeen at Ibrox marked Rangers’ 10th league win in 13 matches since Rohl took charge in October, underlining a resurgence few would have predicted earlier in the season.
From Mid-Table Struggles to Genuine Title Contenders
When Rohl arrived, Rangers were languishing in sixth place, having managed just one win in eight league games and trailing Hearts by a daunting 13 points. Confidence was low, performances were inconsistent, and the title picture looked distant.
Fast forward to January, and the narrative has completely changed. Rangers have lost only once in the Premiership since Rohl’s appointment — a defeat to Hearts — and their steady accumulation of points has propelled them into contention with nearly half the season still to play.
Despite moving above Celtic into second place, Rohl remains grounded.
“We close the gap to just three points from 13 when I arrived. It’s a statement, but still not what we want,” Rohl told BBC Sport Scotland.
“We’re on a journey. It’s about the next game on Sunday.”
Rohl’s Calm Belief Built on Experience
The German coach drew parallels with his previous success at Sheffield Wednesday, where he masterminded a remarkable survival after taking over a side adrift at the bottom.
“In football, everything is possible,” Rohl said.
“It’s about small steps, belief, bringing confidence back and trusting the players.”
Rohl has achieved this resurgence without a wholesale squad overhaul, instead extracting improved performances from a group heavily criticised during Russell Martin’s troubled tenure.
Transfer Window Could Decide the Title Race
Despite the upturn, Rohl has been open about the need for reinforcements, with midfield identified as a priority in the January transfer window. Strengthening in defence and attack is also expected as Rangers look to maintain momentum.
Former Scotland international Michael Stewart highlighted that while results have been strong, performances still have room for improvement.
“They’re not controlling and dominating games as much as he’d want,” Stewart said.
“But he’s a good manager with a keen eye for what’s on the park.”
A Three-Horse Title Race Emerges
With Hearts leading, Rangers resurgent, and Celtic still very much in the picture under returning boss Martin O’Neill, the title race is shaping into a compelling three-way battle.
Former Celtic striker Chris Sutton believes January recruitment will be decisive.
“I think Hearts at this moment in time,” Sutton said.
“But it depends who gets the best of the January transfer window.”
Ex-Rangers striker Kris Boyd echoed that sentiment, praising Rangers’ progress but urging caution.
“Danny Rohl knows there is still a long, long way to go.
Rangers deserve credit — they’ve dragged themselves back into this title race.”
Fans Dare to Dream Again at Ibrox
Supporters have been quick to praise Rohl’s impact, particularly improvements in set pieces and the emergence of young talents.
- Robbie: “Rangers are creating real momentum now — I’d argue they’re favourites.”
- Al: “What a job Danny Rohl has done. Three points off the top seemed impossible in October.”
- Holly: “Finally scoring from corners! Rohl’s attention to detail is paying off.”
- Peter: “Connor Barron is turning into something special — future captain material.”
- Peggy: “Looks like the team Russell Martin built is finally clicking.”
What Comes Next for Rangers?
Rangers face a crucial return trip to Pittodrie on Sunday, where another victory over Aberdeen could further intensify the pressure on Hearts and Celtic.
For now, belief has returned to Ibrox — but as Rohl repeatedly stresses, belief alone will not win the title. Consistency, smart recruitment, and continued improvement will determine whether Rangers’ revival ends with silverware or merely a valiant chase.
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