Football Season Guide

Having made hard work of their first season back in the Scottish Premiership, all eyes are on Pedro Caixinha’s Rangers side as they try to put up a challenge to an imperious Celtic. There are certainly plenty of question marks on the manager following some poor results at the tail end of last season and that has continued with a poor showing against part-time Luxembourg side, Progres, who put them out of the Europa League at the first opportunity. With Rangers relying on the money from getting into the group stage, it may have an impact on how many more players Caixinha can bring in, although a boycott of the club merchandise by supporters which went on for years has now ended and could bring in much needed finances. The manager has brought in a number of players already, using his contacts in Mexico and Portugal in particular, with the likes of Bruno Alves bringing a winning pedigree to the side. Ryan Jack, the former captain of rivals Aberdeen, could be a key signing and has impressed in his games so far while boyhood Rangers fan Graham Dorrans is another key Scottish player. So far the players haven’t exactly settled in quickly, although recent friendly performances may suggest they are getting better acquainted with one another. Having said that, Rangers fans are expecting their team to win every match and they haven't exactly got off to a flying start so the pressure will certainly be on the manager. The selling of Barrie McKay was a slight surprise as he was considered a hot prospect at the club but complaints of an attitude problem and Caixinha’s lack of faith in the winger sealed his fate. Clint Hill will be a big miss as he was one of their best players last season but the manager clearly had different ideas so Alves will replace him.