STEVEN GERRARD is looking forward to this weekend's Premiership match against a Kilmarnock team he admits to having a lot of respect for.
After two draws and two defeats so far in 2020/21, Alex Dyer and his players are still searching for their first win of the season but Gerrard believes Killie's points total does not tell the full story.
Speaking at his Zoom pre-match press conference at the Rangers Training Centre, the manager previewed Saturday's big game and provided an injury update: "I think Kilmarnock are a team we have respect for.
"We've had some real good challenges against them in the past and we know they are very well drilled in the way they set up.
"In terms of their season so far it probably was a red card, but I think that was why they lost the game with St Johnstone [last weekend]. That was probably a game they would have won.
"They obviously took a point off Celtic, so if you analyse it properly they've probably had a stronger start than the points total suggests.
"We know it is going to be tough game, we know they will be organised and a tough challenge to break down, but it's been nice to have a full week to really focus on certain things we weren't too pleased with from our game at Livingston. Hopefully we can put those things right come tomorrow.
"Leon Balogun and Joe Aribo won't make the weekend. They are the players that are ruled out. Allan McGregor is back fit and he's trained with us for the first time yesterday and come through with no issues.
"Jermain Defoe still won't be seen until after the international break.
"I think [Leon and Joe] have both got a very good chance for next week, we've obviously not got a game in midweek, so I expect them to have a real strong chance for next week. This weekend has come too soon for both."
Sunday's goalless draw at Livingston was disappointing for Rangers fans but Gerrard is positive and upbeat ahead on another important league battle.
He added: "I think first and foremost the fans are well entitled to their opinions, that's what supporters are all entitled to. Do I listen to all those opinions? No, I focus on the reality.
"I think we've had a real strong start to the season. Yes, it was a frustrating result [on Sunday] and yes I was a little bit disappointed with the quality in our final third play on the day.
"But it's certainly no time to panic and listen to all the noise on the outside. I think we are one goal away from a perfect start, so when you analyse it properly I'm pretty content with where we are right now."