Rangers have announced their arrival in the Scottish Premiership title conversation, closing the gap on leaders Hearts to just three points after a composed 2–0 victory over Aberdeen at Ibrox. Yet head coach Danny Rohl insists this is only a milestone on a longer journey — second place is not the target, and complacency has no place in his plans.
From crisis to contender
Since Rohl’s appointment in October, Rangers have transformed from a side floundering in sixth and 13 points behind the summit into a team that has won 10 of 13 league outings. That under-the-radar surge has left only Hearts able to beat them in the Premiership, and with almost half the season still to play, the Glasgow club have quietly reinserted themselves into the title picture.
Rohl’s measured optimism
The German coach has been careful to temper the excitement. “We close the gap to just three points from 13 when I arrived. It's a statement but still not what we want,” he told BBC Sport Scotland, stressing the importance of incremental progress. Rohl invoked past rescue missions and survival stories to underline his belief that football is full of possibilities, but he repeatedly returned the focus to the next fixture and the small steps that build lasting success.
Belief rebuilt from within
Perhaps the most striking element of Rangers’ revival is that it has been achieved largely with the same squad that endured criticism under the previous regime. Rohl has injected belief and self‑confidence, coaxing performances out of players who were once written off. The result is a collective that looks sharper, hungrier and more cohesive than it did just months ago.
January business could be decisive
Rangers will not stand still. Rohl has signalled that reinforcements are coming, with midfield identified as a priority — though bolstering defence and attack seems inevitable. How Rangers, Hearts and Celtic navigate the January window will be pivotal; the transfer market could tilt the balance of power as much as any on‑field run.
The wider title picture
Former players and pundits remain split on favourites. Hearts sit top and retain the edge in many eyes, while Celtic’s firepower and managerial return add another layer of unpredictability. “Hearts at this moment in time,” said one pundit, while others warned that form, fitness and January dealings will ultimately decide the destination of the crown.
Rohl knows the road ahead
Voices close to the game praise Rohl’s clarity and tactical eye, but also note the work still to be done. Rangers are not yet dominating matches as consistently as their coach would like, and the coming weeks will test whether this revival is a sustained renaissance or a spirited burst. For now, though, the Ibrox faithful have reason to believe — their team has dragged itself back into contention, and under Rohl’s steady hand, the hunt for silverware has been reignited.
