In the wake of their Europa League qualifying defeat in Poland, McInnes urged his team to tighten up defensively — to “be far more stingy with our work, defend the goal with our lives, don’t give our opponent opportunities” — and lamented the return of the same troubling traits that derailed them last season.
There was little evidence of a quick fix in the short turnaround after their European trip.
Against Hibs on Sunday, his third different back four of the campaign struggled to maintain structure, and summer arrival Vanja Dragojevic soon dragged Josh Kerr down for a penalty as the mistakes piled up.
Those shortcomings, combined with constant changes to defensive partnerships, are only deepening the frustration.
The draw with Dundee United began with a back line of Ben Godfrey, Dujon Sterling, Emmanuel Fernandez and Tuur Rommens.
In Poland, it shifted to Ross McCrorie, Sterling, Emmanuel Fernandez and Rommens.
When David Gray’s side visited, the quartet became Dragojevic, Olwethu Makhanya, Fernandez and Rommens.
The coaching staff must resolve these issues quickly, with Europa League progression finely poised before Thursday’s second leg against Jagiellonia Bialystok.
McInnes felt the loss to Hibs was “really harsh on us,” insisting “we were the better team” who “deserved far better than we got,” and he challenged the penalty decision that put Hibs ahead.
He admitted the result was damaging because they arrived expecting to win, but said the focus now is on regrouping after a significant setback.
He also praised his players for a strong response late in the match.
The lack of continuity in selection is being reflected in their erratic performances on the pitch.
Allan added that consistent performances are what deliver results and silverware, and, while it is still early, there was no real consistency in Rangers’ play on the day.