Rangers manager Derek McInnes has criticised the length of the latest international break, saying the extended period away from club football has made preparations difficult ahead of Saturday’s Scottish Premiership meeting with Kilmarnock.
Rangers had 13 players representing their countries following the 20 September league victory over Celtic, leaving McInnes without his full squad for almost three weeks.
Although the internationals returned to the club on Thursday, not all were immediately available for training. The entire squad is only expected to work together on Friday, one day before the Kilmarnock match and 19 days after the Old Firm win.
McInnes believes the disruption is particularly demanding because players have spent the break travelling internationally, working under different coaching teams and playing multiple matches. He also acknowledged the strain of long periods away from families and the uncertainty clubs face when players are outside their usual medical and performance environments.
The interruption came at an awkward time for Rangers after a significant improvement in results. McInnes’ team entered the break on a six-match winning run, including consecutive victories over Celtic in the League Cup and Premiership.
That sequence helped stabilise Rangers after a difficult opening to McInnes’ tenure at Ibrox, which included elimination from European competition. His September performances were recognised with the Scottish Premiership manager of the month award.
McInnes remains aware that Rangers must maintain their progress rather than rely on the momentum built before the international window.
The Rangers manager also revealed that former Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson recently visited the club’s training ground and spent time with him and his coaching staff.
Ferguson had regularly attended Hearts matches last season while McInnes was leading the Edinburgh club’s unexpected title challenge. The pair have remained in contact since McInnes moved to Rangers.
Their latest discussions included the pressure surrounding difficult starts in management and the importance of judging a season over the longer term. Ferguson also offered a positive assessment of Rangers’ recent display at Celtic Park as McInnes continues to rebuild momentum at Ibrox.