Rangers manager Philippe Clement says the progress of Celtic winger Nicolas Kuhn should act as a warning against judging players too soon.
The Ibrox side trail Scottish Premiership champions and leaders Celtic by 11 points and are also seven points off Aberdeen, though have a game in hand over the Dons.
With Aberdeen hosting Celtic on Wednesday (20:00 GMT), Rangers can gain on both or either if they beat Kilmarnock at Ibrox.
Clement pointed out that the front three that started Sunday’s 1-0 win at St Johnstone – Vaclav Cerny, Hamza Igamane and Nedim Bajrami – were all summer signings and cited Kuhn, who has scored 11 goals in 19 appearances this season after three in 18 following his January move last season.
“You need to find connections,” said Clement.
“I don’t want to make comparisons too much with other teams but the better player on the offensive part of the other side of the town was six months ago or last season not starting. He needed time after the transfer to get his rhythm, to get his connection with other players.
“We’re working on that with all these guys and it’s about small details and it’s about getting the confidence and getting the goals. We come more and more in a good way in the box and we get more and more chances so that’s the way we need to continue.”
Ianis Hagi’s cross was diverted into his own net by Jason Holt as Rangers won in Perth in what was the Romania international’s first start for the Ibrox side in 18 months.
Hagi, 26, looked likely to leave when not included in Rangers’ European squad and excluded from the first team altogether at the start of the season because of a contract issue.
However, the matter was resolved and he returned to the first team picture in October.
“It’s definitely good,” said Hagi, who was on loan at Alaves last season. “Just a nice feeling pulling on the shirt again. I just love every second. I’m enjoying my football. I’m just happy that I can help the team. I love the club, pure and simple.
“I was just trying to control my environment, what I can do and be prepared for the next day and whatever the next day would’ve been, I was ready.
“It’s tough when you don’t play football. You want to play professional football. That’s what I’m here.”
