The Rangers defender reveals advice from Richard Gough
Defender Olwethu Makhanya opens up about getting advice from legend Richard Gough after his strong start at Ibrox. He emphasized the importance of teamwork in the race for the championship.
Rangers defender reveals advice from Richard Gough
According to Sports.
Context
Olwethu Makhanya, 22, joined Rangers from Philadelphia Union and quickly became an important part of the team's defense. Support from Richard Gough could play a vital role in helping him maintain his form and develop further in the competitive environment of the Scottish Premiership.
Why this is important
Advice from Richard Gough, a Rangers legend, could help Olwethu Makhanya further his career in the Scottish Premiership. Makhanya receiving the Player of the Month award for September shows that he is in good form, which is not only important for him personally but also for Rangers' performance in the race for the championship.
Main point
- Rangers defender reveals advice from Richard Gough.
- Defender Olwethu Makhanya shares about receiving advice from legend Richard Gough after a strong start at Ibrox.
- Rangers Defender Reveals Richard Gough’s Advice: Can He Deliver?.
Rangers defender Olwethu Makhanya has revealed that club legend Richard Gough contacted him to offer valuable advice following his impressive performances at Ibrox. The 22-year-old South African joined Rangers from Philadelphia Union for a fee of around £3 million last summer and quickly became an important factor in coach Derek McInnes' defense.
Makhanya impressed strongly in Rangers' two consecutive wins over Celtic before the international break. These outstanding performances earned him the Scottish Premiership Player of the Month award for September, marking a period in which Rangers won six in a row. Gough, the former Rangers captain who helped the team win nine consecutive league titles, recently praised Makhanya on social media. Their conversation took place via Instagram, where Gough shared valuable experiences from his successful career.
"It's great to receive advice from such a legend," Makhanya said, adding that he learned about Gough's achievements after receiving the message. The defender appreciates the recognition and value of the instructions on maintaining his playing form. Rangers have recovered from a difficult start to the season, now sitting just two points behind Celtic before the break. A win over Kilmarnock at Ibrox on Saturday would see McInnes's side move top of the table before Celtic face Motherwell on Sunday.
Makhanya believes that the pressure of playing for Rangers has helped him develop mentally. He describes the pressure as a privilege and asserts that his confidence has increased as the team has made positive improvements. The defender has also developed a good relationship with Emmanuel Fernandez, with both players learning to anticipate each other's moves and responsibilities. Makhanya credits the support from his teammates and coaching staff for helping him gain personal recognition.
He emphasized that defenders cannot succeed alone, especially at a club where fans always expect consistent and winning performances. The understanding between the two players could become a valuable asset as Rangers face greater challenges in the title race. Makhanya's transfer fee of 3 million pounds showed encouragement, because Rangers found a young defender capable of meeting the requirements of Scottish football. His performances against Celtic will be a stronger testament to his potential than individual accolades.
However, two wins against Celtic cannot ensure stability throughout the season. Rangers need Makhanya and Fernandez to maintain effective communication, guard against transition situations and limit costly mistakes against opponents capable of exploiting space behind active defences. Advice from Gough may help Makhanya manage expectations, but the defender needs to continue to improve his positioning and decision-making under pressure. If he maintains his current form, Rangers could have a reliable defensive pairing to build on in a serious title race. The real test will begin when fatigue, injuries and difficult away games begin to expose the weaknesses that early-season excitement can hide.
What happens next
Rangers will face Kilmarnock at Ibrox on Saturday, and a win would see them move to the top of the Scottish Premiership standings before Celtic play. Makhanya will need to continue maintaining high form to help his team achieve this goal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who did Olwethu Makhanya get advice from?
Olwethu Makhanya received advice from Rangers legend Richard Gough.
Why did Richard Gough contact Makhanya?
Richard Gough contacted Makhanya to offer valuable advice following his impressive performances at Ibrox.
Where did Makhanya join Rangers?
Makhanya has joined Rangers from Philadelphia Union.
What recent achievements has Makhanya had?
Makhanya made a strong impression in Rangers' two consecutive victories over Celtic and received the Scottish Premiership Player of the Month award for September.
Where are Rangers currently standing in the rankings?
Rangers are now just two points behind Celtic before the break and are on a run of six consecutive wins.
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