Graeme Souness has reignited the debate ahead of a tense title run-in after boldly claiming Rangers are now a better side than Celtic — despite recent Old Firm setbacks.
The Ibrox legend has been watching closely as Danny Rohl reshapes the team, and while results against their biggest rivals haven’t quite gone their way, Souness believes the bigger picture tells a different story.
At the heart of his argument is one key change: simplicity.
“I think (Rohl) has simplified it, he’s made it less risky for them, and I would imagine it’s a lot simpler for the players to understand.” [Daily Record]
That shift in approach has, in Souness’ view, made Rangers more effective — but not yet complete.
Because for all the improvement, one issue continues to hold them back.
“I think they need more goals. They’re a better team than Celtic.
“That game the other day was decided on penalties, but there was only one team going to win it.”
It’s a strong claim, especially considering Celtic have come out on top in the last two meetings — but Souness isn’t backing down.
Instead, he points to the numbers.
“If you’re trying to attach logic to it, a team that has 24 shots and 120 minutes of football. A team that has one shot in 120 minutes; there should only be one winner.
“So Rangers can only look at themselves and blame themselves for not winning that game.”
For Souness, the conclusion is simple: dominance without cutting edge means nothing.
Even when reflecting on previous encounters, he sees the same pattern. Rangers can take control, but struggle to sustain it — while Celtic find ways to swing momentum back in their favour.
Still, his admiration for the job Rohl has done is clear.
Taking charge in difficult circumstances, the German has steadied things quickly — and, crucially, made the team easier to understand and execute on the pitch.
“I think the one person that deserves all the credit, really, is the manager. Because I know how difficult a job that is, and he’s come in, and he seems to have hit the ground running.
“He’s made common-sense decisions. As I said, he’s simplified it for the players he’s got.”
As the title race tightens, Souness’ verdict adds another layer of intrigue.
In his eyes, Rangers now have the structure and control — but until they find a consistent goalscorer, Celtic may still hold the edge where it matters most.