The Press and Journal (Inverness, Highlands, and Islands)

Hartson doubtful Gers can topple Celtic

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New boss Steven Gerrard is well into his refurbishm­ent of Rangers but John Hartson believes it would be “inconceiva­ble” for them to beat Celtic to the Premiershi­p title next season.

The Ibrox club confirmed the recruitmen­t of 25-year-old centreback Connor Goldson on a four-year-deal from Brighton yesterday.

He joins Croatian defender Nikola Katic, who signed a four-year contract on Tuesday, midfielder Scott Arfield, goalkeeper Allan McGregor, Jamie Murphy, whose loan switch from Brighton was made permanent, and Liverpool youngster Ovie Ejaria on a yearlong loan.

Former Hoops striker Hartson said of his old

“Their biggest worry is getting above Aberdeen”

rivals: “Stevie is a class act and he will certainly make an impact in that dressing room.

“But their biggest worry is getting above Aberdeen, never mind Celtic.

“It is inconceiva­ble to finish above Celtic in terms of where they are on and off the pitch.

“I think realistica­lly, the aim for Rangers should be finishing above Aberdeen, Hibs, Hearts. That should be their target.

“I know the fans won’t think that way but they are nowhere near Celtic so they should be aiming to get above Aberdeen.”

New Light Blues signing Goldson, meanwhile, is raring to go at Ibrox.

The defender, who had heart surgery in early 2017, grew up a Liverpool fan and is relishing linking up with former Reds midfielder Gerrard.

“I want to be able to learn off him as a coach and as a manager,” said Goldson.

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