A team could be hitting form and firing on all cylinders – then all of a sudden it’s time to go away with the national sides and it halts the charge. But there are other times when the chance of a break or change of scenery for some can be a welcome relief. I do think this international fortnight has come at a good time for Rangers.
I thought Rangers looked a bit leggy against Benfica the other night – and not just at the end of the game. Even at the start I got the feeling playing every three days, with the demand to win every game, was starting to take its toll on some of the players. Clement will want as many of his men available, fit and firing for the big push to the line in the league and Scottish Cup. They’ve got work to do before the break though with Dundee and I’m sure they will be determined to bounce back from Benfica the other night. Rangers can take a lot of pride from their achievements in Europe this season.
There are two more trophies on the line – and Rangers will be out to win them. Clement has been terrific at dealing with the immediate challenge and Dundee is arguably now Rangers’ biggest game of the season. They are in a wonderful position with the title in their own hands. It would have been crazy talk saying that a few months ago. Now it’s in their sights and nothing else matters apart from landing the crown.