European distraction fades for Rangers as mammoth month comes into focus
“I’m now fully focused on the league,” Rohl told the media just a few minutes after the final ball had been kicked in Portugal.
“We have a mission and for this, we have all our energy now.”
Perhaps it will end up being a blessing for the Rangers head coach. He is on a fantastic run domestically – winning his last seven – and the lack of European distraction might help them sharpen that focus.
Three of the next four games will truly test their credentials. First up, it’s Hibs at Easter Road on Sunday afternoon (14:00 GMT).
After games against dwindling Kilmarnock and Queen’s Park in the Scottish Cup it’s Motherwell at Fir Park on 11 February (20:00).
Four days later, they welcome Hearts to Ibrox – who have beaten them twice already this season. Three of the top five, two away from home. It’s a huge test of their credentials.
“We are now fully focused on 15 match days in the league and it helps us to have two normal weeks,” Rohl added. “It’s the first time we can really train and can be fresh.
“We did well with the rotation. The next two-and-a-half weeks we have big games ahead and we need everyone. Some players will come back, some trained today.
“We kept one coach in Glasgow with them to be as prepared as possible. On Sunday, we go again with full conviction.”