Rangers are among the Scottish Premiership teams using long passes most frequently, a stylistic note that stands out as the league collectively shifts towards a more expansive, possession-based game. The Ibrox side's approach contrasts with a significant rise in passing volume and accuracy across the division this season.

Passes per game in the Premiership have increased from the previous campaign. Passing accuracy has also climbed to a high level, a notable jump from the last season. Despite this, the percentage of long passes across the league is at its lowest level in five years. Within that trend, Hearts and Rangers are the teams who go long more than any other.

This comes as Rangers build on a strong start to the season, sitting second in the Premiership. Their recent form reads five consecutive wins, a run that includes a victory over Celtic. They are behind the league leaders as they prepare for their next fixture, a home match against Kilmarnock.

Dundee United's passing evolution

Other clubs are driving the stylistic change. Dundee United have significantly increased their average possession this season. Their accurate passes per match have risen. Manager Jim Goodwin revealed that former Scotland coach Jens Berthel Askou, now head coach at Toulouse in Ligue 1, inspired him to change his methods after many years as a player and manager in Scotland. Goodwin said the conversation with Askou was a catalyst for him to embrace a more progressive, possession-oriented philosophy.

Broader influences on style

Celtic and Motherwell lead the league in possession. The recent appointment of Dutch head coach Marink Reedijk at Hibernian is expected to further enhance the trend toward expansive play. Past success by Motherwell and Falkirk is also cited as a contributing factor to the shift. The source notes that Motherwell's style under previous managers and Falkirk's development model have demonstrated the effectiveness of a possession-based approach within Scottish football, encouraging other clubs to follow.

For Rangers, the focus remains on maintaining momentum. Their next opponents, Kilmarnock, currently sit low in the standings. The Ibrox squad will look to continue their winning run and close the gap at the top when they host Killie this weekend.

Background and full detail: AOL.com