Have expensively-assembled Rangers improved at all under McInnes?

The exit from the Conference League at the hands of Jablonec has left Rangers in a state of turmoil. The team appeared devoid of cohesion, desire, and threat throughout the tie, managing only a single goal over 210 minutes of play. Fans were quick to express their fury as the team delivered arguably their worst performance of the season.

Manager Derek McInnes, appointed in June, took accountability for the failure but repeatedly highlighted his players' lack of quality. His frequent tactical shifts during the match failed to improve the team's output, leading to doubts regarding his ability to impart a clear tactical identity on the squad.

The situation at Ibrox is compounded by the heavy financial backing the manager has received. The starting XI in the Czech Republic cost roughly £30 million in transfer fees, yet they were outplayed by a Jablonec side with significantly smaller resources and stature. The contrast in energy and character was stark.

Questions remain over squad management, particularly the omission of midfielder Nico Raskin, despite McInnes citing a lack of experience and quality as key issues. With a challenging trip to Pittodrie ahead, the pressure on McInnes to deliver a swift response is mounting rapidly.