Rangers are making progress under Michael Beale, according to assistant manager Neil Banfield. However, Banfield acknowledges that some fans are frustrated, as evident by the boos during Sunday's 1-0 victory against Motherwell. Beale himself admitted that the team was fortunate to secure the win.
Rangers' recent triumph in the Premiership marked their third consecutive victory across all competitions. However, Banfield, unfazed by the fans' response, emphasized that he was forewarned about the situation by Michael upon their arrival. As a massive club like Rangers, such reactions are an inherent part of the territory.
We are confident that we are following a successful format, despite encountering occasional obstacles along the way. There are numerous factors that contribute to our achievements.
When we secure a victory, it generates excitement among the supporters, while their dissatisfaction is voiced when we fall short. This is a customary aspect of being associated with Rangers. I would like to urge them to continue showing their support. Every time I emerge from the tunnel, the atmosphere is truly magnificent.
The supporters are cheering for us and they will continue to cheer for the team on Wednesday. Please continue to cheer for us and support us as we strive for success.
Hopefully, we will have more opportunities to score goals for them. However, it is a work in progress and we are making progress in the right direction. It is possible that we may need to take a step back before taking two steps forward as we build a successful team.
Is Beale aware of fan pressure?
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Beale took over at Rangers last December
When questioned about Beale's awareness of the scrutiny he faces, Banfield affirmed, "Certainly, he is well aware of it. We all are. It is impossible to avoid."
"When we convene as a collective, we address the situation, scrutinize, and meticulously plan for all possible scenarios."
We are well-prepared and equipped to handle this situation. Despite the injuries, our team has been strengthened, and now it is the players' opportunity to step up and lead us into the semi-final.
If we emerge victorious on Wednesday night, it would be wonderful to reach Hampden Park and participate in yet another semi-final.
The Gers assistant, however, disputed the notion that the team has not delivered a "big performance," asking, "Was Real Betis not a big performance?"
"Did we not play well against PSV? We drew 2-2. We have had some impressive moments, but the challenge is to maintain that level consistently. It's a tough task, but we have unquestionably demonstrated progress and momentum."
"Examining the [Motherwell] match, there are specific areas in which we could have capitalized on our opportunities more effectively. However, when considering our impressive streak of three consecutive clean sheets and the team's strong defensive capabilities, as well as the overall structure and style of play we have been implementing, it is evident that progress is being made. This bodes well for the future."
Matondo out for six weeks
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Rabbi Matondo is expected to be sidelined for six weeks due to a knee injury sustained during the first half of Rangers' victorious match against Motherwell.
The winger becomes the latest player to be sidelined alongside Kieran Dowell, Todd Cantwell, Tom Lawrence, Nico Raskin and Danilo.
"Obviously Rabbi has sustained a knee injury," Banfield said.
"He will turn six weeks old. However, unfortunately, he has been included in the list of injured players.
We have made all the necessary preparations for tomorrow [Wednesday] and assembled the team. We will face Livingston again tomorrow night."
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