“I am proud to have my name associated with this team right now,” Rangers manager Derek McInnes said after securing a second Old Firm derby victory within a week.
His reaction is understandable. Following last Sunday’s 3-0 League Cup success at Ibrox, Rangers defeated Celtic 1-0 away in the league and are increasingly beginning to reflect McInnes’ identity.
A slow opening to the season led to disappointing eliminations from both the Europa League and Conference League. Rangers supporters became concerned as their side slipped behind Celtic and appeared to lack direction.
The situation has since changed dramatically. Rangers now display the qualities associated with their manager, having recorded six consecutive wins and two successive derby victories to move within two points of Celtic.
Former Rangers midfielder Andy Halliday recalled that McInnes had been facing considerable pressure only a month earlier.
Halliday explained that many people were puzzled because the side did not resemble a typical McInnes team. They lacked organisation without possession and did not appear forceful or physically dynamic.
He added that perceptions have shifted completely during the past three or four weeks, with the latest performance showing all the characteristics expected from a McInnes side.
Rangers played proactively and with intensity, challenged their opponents physically, moved the ball forward quickly after regaining possession and kept Celtic under sustained pressure for long periods.
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