McInnes admits Rangers squad lacks quality after Europa League exit
Former players call for tactical overhaul and the return of James Tavernier as Rangers face Conference League play-off against Jablonec
Rangers manager Derek McInnes has publicly acknowledged that his squad lacks the necessary quality and confidence to compete at the highest level, following a Europa League qualifying defeat to Jagiellonia Bialystok. The loss marks the worst start in the club’s managerial history, extending to four games, and sees the team dropped into the UEFA Europa Conference League play-offs against Czech side Jablonec.
Speaking to BBC Sport, McInnes admitted that despite spending millions on nine new signings this summer, the current roster is not prepared for European football. He stated, “The club is built for the Champions League and Europa League, but I don't think the team is ready for it and it pains me to say it.” The manager emphasized that his primary objective is to inject more quality and belief into a side that finished third in the Scottish Premiership last season, a result he deemed insufficient.
The defeat has intensified scrutiny on McInnes, who faces comparisons to his predecessor Russell Martin after a similarly poor start last term. Former Rangers midfielder Andy Halliday suggested the club’s recruitment strategy has left the squad imbalanced and lacking leadership. Halliday argued that the team should recruit former captain James Tavernier, who remains a free agent, describing him as an immediate upgrade capable of handling the pressure at Ibrox.
Compounding the tactical issues, striker Youssef Chermiti has been ruled out for a significant period with a long-term knee injury. This development has forced the club to target a new striker in addition to the wingers and defenders already on their radar. McInnes confirmed that PSV Eindhoven winger Couhaib Driouech is set to be the latest arrival, though the timeline for the transfer remains unconfirmed.
Former striker Steven Thompson noted that captain Lawrence Shankland is facing increased mental pressure, with fans scrutinizing every touch. McInnes conceded that the team lost control of the match after he switched from a back three to a back four in the second half, a tactical change he believed would involve his wingers higher up the pitch but ultimately failed to produce a strong 90-minute performance.
