Michael Beale is calling on Rangers fans to support the club's new signings amid a challenging start to the season. Following a disappointing 1-0 loss to Kilmarnock in their Scottish Premiership opener, the Ibrox team faced difficulties in their 2-1 victory over 10-man Servette in the first leg of the Champions League qualifier.
Beale has made significant changes to his Ibrox squad during the summer transfer window in an effort to disrupt the domestic dominance of their Old Firm rivals and ensure a disappointing comeback for Brendan Rodgers this season. The team has acquired nine fresh signings, which consist of talented forwards such as Cyriel Dessers, Sam Lammers, and Danilo. Additionally, several players from last season's first team have departed from the club.
The manager emphasizes the importance of unity as they aim to regain form, beginning with a home match against Livingston on Saturday.
"We have a revamped squad with numerous new additions, and our goal is to quickly develop a well-coordinated team," expressed Beale.
"I observed promising indications during the midweek, where we were hopeful of netting one or two additional goals. It would have nearly constituted a flawless evening, yet things don't consistently unfold in such a manner.
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Cyril Dessers scored Rangers' second in their win over Servette
Last year, the squad saw many familiar faces, indicating a possible weariness towards them. However, we now have a fresh set of individuals, whom we should embrace, support, and collaborate with to establish this new team. Personally, I find this prospect highly motivating.
Scott Wright has made his return to the club following the unsuccessful attempt to join Turkish club Pendikspor. Beale suggests that there won't be any immediate alteration in his circumstances, stating, "Until there are any modifications, Scott Wright will remain a player for Rangers in the near future."
Cifuentes set for first start
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Jose Cifuentes came off the bench in Rangers win over Servette
Jose Cifuentes is set to make his debut for Rangers against Livingston at Ibrox on Saturday, following his appearance in a European match earlier in the week. The 24-year-old Ecuadorian midfielder recently joined the team from Los Angeles FC, signing a four-year contract. He is one of the nine latest signings by the club's assistant manager, Michael Beale.
The midfielder, who had been on the bench but didn't play in the surprising 1-0 loss against Kilmarnock in the cinch Premiership opening match at Rugby Park last weekend, was finally given a chance in the 77th minute of the 2-1 victory over Servette in the first leg of the Champions League third qualifying round at Ibrox on Wednesday night. Beale commented that he wanted him to experience Scottish football, despite his late arrival and jet lag the previous Thursday.
"There's eight substitutes, let's just get him there so he can understand the environment.
"He has just only moved into his new place the last couple of days so he is in and out of a hotel.
"I thought he was quite good when he came on the other night in a small glimpse but now I think he is ready."
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