Rangers manager Derek McInnes brushed aside questions about the club's opening-day struggles after a 1-1 draw with Dundee United. The Light Blues have now failed to win their first league game for four consecutive seasons, but McInnes insisted he's focused on the present rather than past issues. League standing (final 2025 table -- new season not yet under way): 2nd in Premiership, 69 pts, 19W-12D-2L from 33 games, recent form WLLLL.
What happened in the match?
Lachlan Rose gave Dundee United the lead before Thelo Aasgaard's second-half strike levelled the score. Rangers struggled to build momentum despite dominating possession, with United nearly snatching a late winner. The result extends Rangers' winless opening-day streak to four games.
Why McInnes isn't looking back
When asked about Russell Martin's controversial post-match comments from last season, McInnes shut down the comparison. "Yeah, well it's one game. I'm not really interested in what has gone on before," he said. Instead, the manager focused on his team's current performance, admitting they weren't good enough to secure all three points.
What comes next for Rangers?
McInnes identified lack of concentration and maintaining momentum as key areas for improvement. With next fixture vs Kilmarnock (away, 2026-12-26) (11th in the table) looming, the manager will need to address these issues quickly. The Light Blues will also be without currently sidelined: Connor Barron, José Cifuentes, Ross McCrorie as they look to turn their season around.
