Youssef Chermiti: Rangers’ capitulation puts ‘fire in our belly’ for next season
Youssef Chermiti believes Rangers’ post-split capitulation will put “fire in our belly” for next season.
The Light Blues’ 2-1 William Hill Premiership defeat against Hibernian at Ibrox on Wednesday night was the fourth loss in a row for Danny Rohl’s side.
That came on a night where outgoing captain James Tavernier raised eyebrows when he withdrew from the squad after being benched for what was to be his final Ibrox appearance after 11 years in Govan.
Somewhat bizarrely, the 34-year-old right-back came out before the game to be presented with a commemorative shield by former Gers skipper and manager John Greig.
A late goal from Hibs substitute Dane Scarlett – after Thelo Aasgaard’s free-kick had cancelled out Martin Boyle’s opener – gave the Hibees the victory over Rangers, who were already consigned to third place this season.
Chermiti, the 21-year-old Portuguese striker who signed from Everton last summer, was reluctant to get into the Tavernier issue, saying: “To be honest, we haven’t spoken about this. That’s between Tav and the gaffer and we didn’t have a chat about this.”
Asked about the recent collapse in form ahead of the final game of the season away to Falkirk on Saturday, he added: “Yeah, obviously we know we haven’t won for four games in a row.
“We’re really sad but I think that just gives us a fire in our belly for next season.
“Yeah, for sure, because this season was a fail for us, so obviously we need to improve better and we go again next season.”
After an unconvincing start to his Rangers career where he was widely criticised, Chermiti has grown into the striker’s role at Ibrox with 12 goals going into the game against the Bairns and is clear about his personal ambition and hunger.
He said: “I want to win the title, that’s what I’m thinking about.
“Obviously, the first few months in Scotland was a bit difficult for me but I’ve had some time to settle down.
“And as I said in a few (media) conferences before, I feel more confident in the team, in the country as well.
“Everyone gave me more confidence and even me, on the pitch, I feel more confident.
“This season has been sad for us. We had a goal, we didn’t get it but this is football and we go again next season.
“Our target now is Falkirk, we’re trying to finish the season well and we’re trying to win the game against Falkirk.”