Derek McInnes rates Rangers transfers as Kilmarnock boss pinpoints one key area Michael Beale has strengthened

Derek McInnes predicts a more physical Rangers side this season when he looks at Michael Beale’s summer signings but is desperate to put one over the Old Firm this season after failing to beat Celtic or Rangers last season.

And the Rugby Park gaffer hopes their Viaplay Cup group campaign gives them a better chance as they kick off their new Scottish Premiership campaign against last season’s runners-up. Beale has embarked on an eight-player summer spending spree with Jose Cifuentes due to arrive this week as signing number nine for the Light Blues.

McInnes is licking his lips at the prospect of an opener in front of the Sky Sports TV cameras and is relishing the challenge against his old cub. Speaking to Sky Sports about the a tough opening fixture, he said: “Everyone has to play everyone at some point. Rugby Park will be bouncing, a brilliant atmosphere, full stadium, live on Sky so all the ingredients are there for that first game of the season proper.

“Sometimes the first few games can catch you out and the fact we’ve had some competitive League Cup games helps from our point of view but it's a tough game nonetheless. Mick has made plenty signings, he’s obviously trying to put his stamp on the team, he’s signed a lot of forwards. And there’s a bit more physical presence looking at some of the signings in terms of size.

“They've added some good players and Rangers have spent a bit money so it will be a tough game but you expect that when Rangers come here. But we beat everyone in the Premiership last season except Rangers and Celtic and it’s important we try to have a wrestle with them and lay a glove on them as much as we can and come out with a positive result at the end. And the first test of that is Saturday.”