MICHAEL MOLS, the former Rangers striker, believes there is still a considerable gulf between his old club and rivals Celtic and that the Ibrox side should content themselves with aiming for a top six place in the Ladbrokes Premiership next season.
The Dutchman has been impressed by the work done by manager Mark Warburton in winning the Ladbrokes Championship, collecting the Petrofac Training Cup and defeating Celtic in the William Hill Scottish Cup semi-final.
Mols watched that match back in April, which saw Warburton’s team come out on top in a penalty shoot-out, and agrees it indicates progression is being made, but he is not convinced they can mount a title challenge so soon.
Read more: Rangers' Joey Barton - The title pressure is all on Celtic
“I think there is still a big gap between Rangers and Celtic,” he told HeraldSport.
“Of course, the Old Firm win was good against Celtic in the Scottish Cup semi-final, but it was a difficult game.
“I think they need to step up a little bit more to compete with Celtic again. I think there is still a big difference.
“Maybe Celtic didn’t play really well in the semi-final, but we shouldn’t get over-excited by that result. There is still a long way to go.
“For me, it is difficult to judge what the standard will be in the Premiership next season. It’s hard as I have been watching Rangers in the Championship.
“If Rangers have a good season, then they could finish somewhere from first to sixth place for me. That’s what I believe.”
Read more: Old Firm Analysis - Andy Halliday's superb performance epitomised Rangers' spirit
There have already been signs of encouragement for Mols, mostly in the form of former England midfielder Joey Barton, who left Burnley last month to sign on a two-year deal.
“I think Joey Barton is a good signing because it puts somebody in midfield with strength. Sometimes, Rangers have lacked that kind of player,” reflected the former Utrecht forward.
“He has done well in England and will be a real quality player for Rangers next season. There’s no doubt about that.
Read more: Manchester City defender Chidiebere Nwakali wanted by Celtic
“Barton has great movement, but you need physicality in midfield too. That’s important too. The club have done really well to bring a player like him up to Scotland.”
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