‘We are ready’ – Mohamed Diomande backs Rangers to make strong start after tough summer

Mohamed Diomande believes Rangers’ demanding pre-season preparations have placed the squad in the right condition to compete when the new campaign begins.

The Ivorian midfielder has backed Derek McInnes’ side to make a strong start after a challenging schedule that tested the team physically and tactically ahead of the return of competitive football.

Rangers concluded their pre-season programme with a goalless draw against Premier League opposition West Ham United, a result Diomande believes highlighted the team’s defensive organisation and progress.

The Light Blues will now shift their focus to their Scottish Premiership opener against Dundee United at Tannadice on Friday night, with Diomande determined to avoid another slow start.

“I am looking forward to the new season. The first games of the season in my two years here have not been good enough,” the Ivorian told Rangers TV.

“I hope we can get all three points against Dundee United.”

Diomande demands winning mentality after summer work

Rangers endured a physically intense pre-season campaign, including a demanding training camp in Spain, as McInnes worked to prepare his squad for the challenges ahead.

Diomande believes the hard work during the summer has helped improve the team’s fitness levels and believes the players are now prepared for the intensity of competitive action.

“Pre-season has been amazing for me, but we have worked hard. We ran a lot in Spain and had a lot of training, but I am happy with how I feel fitness-wise,” he said.

“I am where I need to be for the season.”

The midfielder, who joined Rangers from Danish side FC Nordsjaelland in January 2024, has become an important figure in the squad and is expected to play a key role in McInnes’ plans this season.

His confidence comes after a pre-season period designed to build consistency and improve performances following an inconsistent campaign last term.

West Ham draw offers positive signs before league opener

Rangers’ final friendly against West Ham provided Diomande with encouragement, particularly after the team showed control during the opening stages of the match.

Although the Scottish side failed to find the breakthrough, the midfielder felt there were positive aspects to take into the new season.

“Against West Ham, we controlled the game, especially in the first half. In the second half we were maybe a bit laid back, and they had some chances,” Diomande explained.

“We wanted to win the game, but we got a clean sheet. All in all, we have had a good pre-season, and we are ready for the season.”

The clean sheet was viewed as an important defensive boost ahead of the trip to Tannadice, where Rangers will look to begin their campaign with three points.

Rangers target improved start under McInnes

For Diomande, the opening fixture represents an opportunity for Rangers to set the tone early.

The midfielder admitted previous opening matches during his time at the club have fallen below expectations, and he is eager for the team to respond with a positive result against Dundee United.

With a fresh season ahead and McInnes looking to establish his identity at Rangers, Diomande believes the squad’s preparation has provided a strong foundation.

The Ivorian’s message is clear – the hard work has been done, the squad is physically ready, and Rangers must now deliver when the competitive action begins.