Rangers defender John Souttar has urged fans to judge the team's mentality at season's end after conceding a two-goal lead to Celtic in their latest Old Firm derby. The Scotland international acknowledged supporters' right to question the team's mental fortitude following a disappointing second-half collapse that saw Youssef Chermiti's double canceled out by Kieran Tierney and Reo Hatate goals.

Souttar's comments come at a critical juncture for Rangers, who have drawn four of their last six matches and now trail Hearts of Midlothian by six points in the Scottish Premiership. The 29-year-old center-half emphasized that with nine games remaining, the team must demonstrate consistency throughout entire matches rather than just 45-minute bursts. He pointed to the dominant first-half display against Celtic as evidence of what the team is capable of achieving.

Rangers face Celtic again in Sunday's Scottish Cup quarter-final at Ibrox, presenting an immediate opportunity to silence critics. Souttar stressed the importance of maintaining shape and experience when facing quality opposition, acknowledging that Celtic will have periods of possession. The defender's call for patience from supporters reflects the pressure mounting on Rangers as they attempt to salvage their season and challenge for silverware.