DaMarcus Beasley says a successful festive programme can set up Rangers' title hopes. Gers travel to Hibernian on Sunday before welcoming Dundee United to Ibrox three days later. They then face Celtic in the first game of the new year.

Beasley knows a clean sweep of victories would see Rangers stretch that advantage which would be key to their title hopes.

"It's a very crucial period. We are playing well and we have a lot of confidence going into the first game against Hibs. It's crucial to get nine points," said the American.

"It will be vital to the rest of the season. In this country, leading at the halfway point is a good thing and we want to be that team."