Emmanuel Fernandez says Rangers’ European exit could help title challenge

Emmanuel Fernandez believes Rangers’ early European exit could give them an advantage over Celtic and Hearts in the Scottish Premiership title race.

Derek McInnes’ side have won seven successive matches in all competitions since their qualifying disappointments, keeping five clean sheets during that run.

With their rivals balancing domestic and European commitments, Fernandez believes extra recovery and training time could benefit Rangers.

Emmanuel Fernandez sees benefit in free midweeks

Asked by Sky Sports whether the lighter schedule could help Rangers, Fernandez said: “100 per cent, because less games ultimately means less injuries and more time to be ready for the weekend, I guess.”

The defender also believes uninterrupted training weeks can help a squad containing several summer signings develop a better understanding.

But he stressed that Rangers must maintain their focus, regardless of whether their opponents have had less time to recover.

Rangers can go top before Celtic face Hearts

Rangers visit Dundee on Saturday knowing victory would take them above Celtic before the leaders host Hearts on Sunday.

McInnes’ side are two points behind Celtic in the Premiership table, with 19 points from eight matches. Hearts are third on 16, while Dundee sit fourth with 13.

Both title rivals were in European action on Thursday. Celtic lost 4–1 at Benfica, while Hearts conceded a late equaliser in their 1–1 draw with Nordsjaelland.

Rangers’ trip to Dens Park kicks off at 8pm UK time on Saturday, with live coverage on Sky Sports Football.