Football News: Rangers' Shape, Press, and Energy Issues Exposed Against Roma

A tactical reflection from the Club Deck at Ibrox, analysing Rangers' pressing problems, lack of width, and visible fatigue in the recent clash with Roma - plus what Danny Röhl must address over the international break.

Had a day to think about the last Glasgow Rangers match. Watching it from the Club Deck at the halfway line gave a fascinating view of how the team works - or, too often, how it doesn't work together.

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The Press

The press only works when everyone commits at the same time. Too many times, one player held back, giving Roma an easy way out. Communication clearly needs to improve.

There were also moments when Baron had to sprint 20 yards to close down a man that someone closer should've taken. That extra second - plus the long dash - allowed Roma to play out far too comfortably.

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Shape and Width

The lack of width absolutely killed us. Too often we played inside, ending up in each other's space. That congestion high up the pitch let Roma's defence swallow us up time and again.
It's hard to tell if it's a tactical instruction or poor communication, but either way it's hurting the balance.

When we did try to go wide, our wingers were engaging in one-on-ones in our own half - that sort of play needs to happen 25 or 30 yards further up the pitch to be effective.

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Quality and Execution

Fundamentally, I know we're trying to be positive - but I'm not sure we currently have the quality across the pitch to compete at European level.
Because we constantly came inside and closed down our own space, players were forced to take the ball tight, make quick passes in crowded areas, and too often lost possession. The turnover rate of poor passes was far too high.

Playing one up front is also a thankless task in this team.
Chermiti actually did alright - battled well, linked up play - but when the chances came, he's got to hit the target at the very least.

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Fatigue and Body Language

The side looked tired early in the first half. You have to wonder if that 120 minutes last week took more out of them than anyone expected.
A lot of times, players received the ball already closed down, leaving the backwards pass as the only safe option. We need more composure and better body positioning to look forward, not just recycle.

At the back, the defence often looked up and found no movement ahead - hence the constant sideways or backwards passes. You could see the frustration and gesturing from several players. The lack of options in midfield is an issue that needs addressing.

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Looking Ahead

Good luck to Danny - hopefully the two-week international break gives him the time to work on structure, communication, and attacking outlets. There's plenty to fix, but with proper organisation and a bit more belief, there's still a platform to build from.

Written by 24jamger November 08 2025 11:21:40