Rangers manager Derek McInnes has been speaking to the media before Premier Sports Cup quarter-final against Celtic on Sunday at Ibrox. The Ibrox boss emphasised the importance of striking the first blow against a good Celtic team to deliver the chance to "be relevant domestically again in terms of winning trophies". McInnes stressed the need for discipline alongside being competitive and aggressive, adding a "bit of fire and ice at the right times can help matters".
Facing the league leaders was always going to be a free hit and the team played with a tempo and energy that was refreshing. The passing interplay, movement and pressing off the ball is definitely better than has been seen for a few years at McDiarmid Park. Poor from Cheick Diabate for the goal, no idea what he was trying to do, but Joel Cotterill looks a player, Enes Alic was superb down the left again and Toby Steward outstanding in goals.
Sam Johnstone's smile beamed like the McDiarmid Park floodlights after the goalkeeper's accomplished Celtic debut. Making his first league appearance in 21 months, the Wolves loanee impressed as Celtic preserved their 100% start with a hard-fought 1-0 win at St Johnstone. Johnstone was something of a surprise inclusion in place of Viljami Sinisalo - but has he played his way into the team for Sunday's League Cup quarter-final with Rangers at Ibrox?
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