Kevin Thomson has told Rangers' reeling stars they'll need to stand up and take post-derby stick on the chin.
Giovanni van Bronckhorst 's side were battered 3-0 by Celtic on Wednesday night to surrender their position at the top of the Premiership.
Reo Hatate notched twice and Liel Abada added a third - but Ange Postecoglou 's team could well have added plenty more on a dismal night for the champions.
Former Ibrox midfielder Thomson stressed that while Rangers cannot dwell for too long on the result, they must be able to deal with stinging criticism heading their way.
The Kelty Hearts boss reckons the likes of Allan McGregor and Ryan Jack will be at the forefront in telling some home truths in the dressing room.
Thomson told Sky Sports News: "Celtic were superb, right across the pitch. For Gio and the boys it's a difficult one to swallow.
"We know from experience you can't dwell on these bad nights for too long, they've got a massive game against Hearts on Sunday.
"A lot of Rangers fans will find it difficult to see the positives and probably the players, but as an ex-player I've been in those positions where you can lose big games and it can feel like the end of the world.
"At the same time, they just need to find a way to bounce back.
"When you do have setbacks when you're going for a title - and obviously Rangers and Celtic players fight for every trophy - a point, 14 games to go, they need to get back on the bandwagon, winning games and feeling good.
"After such a disappointment they need to find a way to get the fans back onside.
"I saw in Van Bronckhorst's interview he had mentioned there were a few frank words.
"People like Allan McGregor, Ryan Jack are big personalities in the changing room and they'll have a few choice words to say. I'd like to think they would have anyway."
Thomson did pause to give Celtic due credit for a devastating display as they took a one point advantage at the top.
As for Rangers, however, he struggled to find anything worth salvaging.
He continued: "It's hard to be positive about the performance because Rangers were so poor all over the pitch and Celtic deserve massive credit. Greg Taylor, Juranovic, Carter-Vickers and Starfelt were superb on the night.
"Ange got his tactics spot on and Hatate's signing value for money has been incredible.
"It's up to Rangers to find a way to make sure they're on top at the end of the season.
"Harsh words are harsh words. You need to be big enough and brave enough to deal with them.
"People like Allan McGregor, turning 40, he's still at the forefront and driving the boys.
"But unfortunately other people need to step up to the plate."
