Middleton wants to take points tally to the max
Glenn Middleton has many years ahead of him to rack up achievements as a footballer.
But the teenager is in a hurry to help Rangers achieve something special within the next week.
Middleton would love nothing better than to see the Ibrox club back on top of the Premiership when he celebrates his 19th birthday on New Year’s Day.
To do that, he believes, requires a hat-trick of victories against St Johnstone, Hibs and Celtic.
Middleton said: “That’s what this football club is about, being top of the table and challenging. We’re all desperate for it to happen.
“To get that requires sticking together, being there for each other and getting nine points at the end of the next three games.”
Rangers have twice made it to the top of the league this month, but have only remained there for a brief period.
Middleton says the emotions swirling around Ibrox are a mix of pride and frustration.
He went on: “It’s a bit of both – we have to hold our hands up for not staying there longer.
“But there’s a long way to go. We know what we want to achieve.
“Everyone wants to be at the top. It’s why we’re here – to win trophies and be successful as a team.”
There will be a big focus on Middleton and Rangers’ other creative players over the next week.
Steven Gerrard’s side have only scored once from open play in their last five matches.
Alfredo Morelos remains their main attacking threat but many of his goals are self-created.
Middleton admits he can only become a regular pick by producing more consistent performances.
He said: “I’m further ahead in terms of my own progress than where I thought I’d be by now.
“The fact the schedule has been so busy has been good for me.
“No-one ever wants to see someone get injured. But when it happens, you have to be able to step up.”
Everyone at Rangers is trying to avoid thinking about Saturday’s Old Firm game.
That makes perfect sense because even a handsome victory against Celtic would be have a hollow ring to it unless they can beat St Johnstone and Hibs.
Middleton came off the bench to play nine minutes of the defeat at Celtic Park in September.
He said: “That was massive for me. I’d have preferred a win, but it gave me a taste for it and I’m desperate to change things in the future.
“I’m grateful for all the opportunities – but none of that means anything if we don’t get the three points.”