UPDATE: Rangers manager Danny Rohl has declared his team primed and eager to take on Celtic in the Premier Sports Cup semi-final this Sunday, October 29, 2023, amid pointed jabs from Celtic’s interim boss Martin O’Neill. Rohl, responding to O’Neill’s claims that Rangers are “no threat whatsoever,” insists that his players are already highly motivated to secure victory at Hampden.
O’Neill, who has been vocal in his criticism of Rangers this season, stated that the current Rangers squad would be “demolished” by the Celtic side he faced 25 years ago. However, Rohl remains unfazed by the remarks, emphasizing that his team’s drive does not rely on external comments for motivation.
“There’s no need for such words for motivation,” Rohl said. “My players are really motivated for a game like this. Everybody wants to play in this game because they want to be part of a successful team.”
As the 73-year-old O’Neill prepares to face the 36-year-old Rohl, the younger manager acknowledges the experience gap but is focused on the game ahead. “We start at 0-0,” he stated, showing confidence in his squad’s abilities.
Rohl is particularly excited about his first Old Firm derby, just weeks into his tenure at Rangers. “This is why we love this game,” he said. “It’s all or nothing. You win, you come to the final; you lose, you’re out.” He believes that a victory could ignite Rangers’ season, aiming for their third straight win.
“This win would give us a massive boost,” Rohl added. “I can feel it, the energy and the spirit is back. The belief is there.”
In addition to the upcoming clash, Rohl confirmed that Rangers are in the process of hiring an assistant coach with prior club experience, with discussions expected to finalize after the international break. “It’s important that we speak to Kevin (Thelwell) and look at the candidates,” he noted.
As the excitement builds for the showdown at Hampden, all eyes will be on Rohl and his Rangers as they seek to silence O’Neill’s criticisms and secure a spot in the cup final. Fans are eagerly anticipating what promises to be an electrifying encounter between these fierce rivals.
