Published Sep 26, 2026, 7:10 AM GMT+1

European elimination and a slow start domestically had put Derek McInnes under real pressure while Celtic were flying. Two Old Firm victories later, and the moods have switched around in East and South Glasgow.

McInnes was thrilled with the performance in the 1-0 victory at Celtic Park: "I was really pleased with the performance, and I am delighted that although there were no fans in here, I really hope they enjoy their Sunday because we know who we play for and we know how many people will take pleasure in that."

Former Rangers midfielder Ryan Jack has been impressed by how quickly things have changed too.

"Considering the start of the season, getting knocked out of Europe and not really starting too well domestically," he told the Go Radio Football Show this week. "The two results (vs Celtic) for Derek McInnes and Rangers are massive and have given everyone a huge boost at the club.

"I think the narrative changed for sure. Everyone would have been calling for Derek's head I am sure if he had lost the last two Old Firm matches with the way they lost in Europe as I touched on and started in the league.

"But it just shows you how quickly in Scotland and Glasgow especially how things can change. If you go and get two big results against your rivals it just spins everything."

Jack also pointed out where the scrutiny now lies: "You see all the pressure just flips onto Celtic and Martin O'Neill now."

And he may have a point. There has been speculation that O'Neill could walk away from Celtic, with reports of tension between the manager and the board following a fractured transfer window and back to back Old Firm defeats. It seems those two results could end up shaping the season for both clubs.

The biggest threat to Rangers' momentum now is injuries. Their attack is already stretched, with Youssef Chermiti and Lawrence Shankland both sidelined. The midfield is not exactly overflowing either, after Connor Barron left on a late loan to Middlesbrough this summer.

That is where Jack could come in. The 34-year-old has been a free agent since leaving Turkish second-tier side Esenler Erokspor this summer, and he has been training at Auchenhowie to stay in shape.

"I am just into the Rangers training ground working away with the physio and performance staff and also doing some gym work, so yeah feeling good," he said. "It is pretty much out of the way (injury). It is just this time of season when you are out of contract, you just want to keep fit."

Football FanCast sources understand that while Rangers are not immediately planning on offering Jack a contract, that could change if the midfield suffers the same kind of injury problems as the forward line. McInnes does not want to be caught short, and coaches at Auchenhowie have been impressed by Jack's work rate and attitude as he works his way back to full fitness.

That attitude has always been one of his biggest strengths. He made 210 appearances in seven years at Ibrox and played a key role in the 2020-21 title win, with Steven Gerrard praising his character during his time in charge.

"As a midfielder, I was jealous of Ryan Jack's performance tonight," Gerrard once said. "It was stunning.

"I had watched Ryan from the outside before I came here and I knew about his big move from Aberdeen. But it's not until you get close up to these players that you see what they are about and how hungry they are, how they live their lives.

"I think I have got a good type on my hands there. He is a player who cares, who wants to win and is prepared to go out on the pitch and do exactly what you have asked of him."

Those same qualities could make the 34 year-old a valuable and low-cost addition at Ibrox if injuries hit the midfield in the coming months.