Steven Gerrard accepts criticism will come following Champions League failure
The Ibrox side lost 4-2 to Malmo on aggregate
Last updated 13th Aug 2021
Rangers boss Steven Gerrard accepts criticism will come their way after being dumped out of Champions League qualifying by Malmo.
The Ibrox side trailed 2-1 from the first leg but took the lead at home through a header from Alfredo Morelos.
The third round qualifier appeared to swing further in the Light Blues' favour when Malmo midfielder Bonke Innocent was sent off just before the break
However, two impressive strikes from Malmo striker Antonio Colak early in the second half gave the Swedish side a 4-2 aggregate victory and subject Rangers to their third consecutive defeat.
Gerrard said: "The last week hasn't gone to plan.
"We have underachieved in this competition over both legs - there's no getting away from that.
"But it is still very early days in domestic competition.
"There will be a bit of panic on the outside. A bit of noise and a bit of criticism.
"That's the way it is - we have to accept that.
"But me and my staff have a lot of belief in this group.
"We'll try and get our better players and our players who are capable of performing very high at this level back on the pitch and in a better place and I'm sure our form will turn".
Rangers have now lost three of their opening four matches in all competitions after defeat to Dundee United in the Premiership on Saturday.
They welcome Dunfermline to Ibrox on Friday as they kick off their Premier Sports Cup campaign, with Gerrard saying he'll be seeking out his leaders to help them bounce back.
He said: "I'll be chatting to my senior players.
"We have got strong leaders in the dressing room. I trust them a lot.
"I'll speak to them in the coming days. They've got a big responsibility to help reset and go again.
"It's the same as when you're on a winning run. You want to speak to your senior players to keep your standards. It's not just a case of doing it on a bad week.
"But now our supporters need them a lot to try and flip the form and mood of the place".