Scottish Premiership: Celtic vs. Rangers
Venue: Celtic Park, Glasgow Date: Saturday, 3 January Time: 12:30 GMT
Coverage: Tune in to BBC Radio Scotland & Sounds, with live text commentary available on the BBC Sport website & app. Highlights will be on BBC Scotland and iPlayer starting at 19:15.
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Rangers are diligently working to strengthen their squad as the January transfer window opens, according to head coach Danny Rohl.
Since his appointment in October, this winter marks Rohl’s first chance to make adjustments to his team.
“We are currently engaged in a 24/7 search for players,” he stated.
“It’s all about decision-making, negotiations, and timing. We have some players in mind, but patience is key.”
“As a manager, you always hope to bring in new players as early as possible.”
“In the January window, you need to be patient yet assertive, and it’s crucial to seize the opportunities that arise in the market.”
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Rohl indicated that left-back is a position of need, with Jayden Meghoma currently the only left-sided full-back. He has three right-sided options: Max Aarons, Dujon Sterling, and captain James Tavernier.
Former Hearts left-back James Penrice, 27, is one name already mentioned in connection with Rangers, having joined AEK Athens in July.
“On the right side, I have solid options,” Rohl noted ahead of Saturday’s Scottish Premiership clash with Celtic.
“Jayden has been solid defensively, and I appreciate his improvement. If circumstances arise, I’ve occasionally utilized Max on the left, which might be a position we want to enhance.”
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Rohl’s only experience of the Old Firm derby came during November’s Premier Sports Cup defeat, where interim manager Martin O’Neill’s Celtic won 3-1 after extra time.
Currently, Rangers trail second-placed Celtic by three points, while Wilfried Nancy’s team is also three points behind leaders Hearts.
“We are prepared,” Rohl emphasized. “There’s a strong sense of confidence and belief in the team at the moment.”
“A good start is essential. This will be an emotional encounter for both sides, and I am close to fielding my best XI, which is encouraging.”
“Football is about the finer details and maintaining momentum during the match. We need to establish our momentum early.”
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“The focus will be on how we can penetrate our opponents, while also showcasing our aggression in challenges. I expect to see a team that plays bravely and defends diligently around our box.”
Rohl expressed that winning the derby for the first time would be “incredible.”
“To achieve this, we need to deliver an exceptional performance,” he added.
“While it’s easy to think of it as just three points, this match carries significant emotional weight. If we can maintain pressure and win back possession, it will unsettle them; conversely, if they establish good moments early, their crowd will rally behind them.”