CEO has confirmed that the Gers have the option to sign a “£5 million striker” on a free transfer after a streak of eight games without a goal

Lawrence Shankland, the talisman of Hearts, is perpetually associated with Rangers Football Club.

The 29-year-old Scotland international striker is a critical asset to Hearts; however, his failure to score this season has resulted in the dismissal of Jambos manager Steven Naismith.

The striker has yet to score in eight matches.

The situation with Lawrence Shankland looms over Gorgie as the gusts of change sweep through Hearts, who are presently at the bottom of the Scottish Premiership.

Jambos CEO Andrew McKinlay has been in conversation regarding the striker’s future, as he is currently out of contract and will be available for free at the conclusion of the season.

Hearts’ Lawrence Shankland to conclude his contract

Lawrence Shankland was heavily linked to the Rangers prior to the January transfer window last season.

The former Ayr United and Dundee United striker had achieved an exceptional level of performance at Tynecastle last year, scoring a total of 31 goals. Consequently, he was awarded both the golden boot and Scotland’s Player of the Year.

Rangers’ eventual title collapse is frequently attributed to their failure to sign Shankland, who was valued at approximately £5 million by Hearts last January.

Andrew McKinlay has now verified that the likelihood of a January exit this season is dwindling, despite the fact that Hearts have not received any proposals for Shankland.

This is due to the fact that the CEO of Hearts has disclosed that the Jambos anticipate that the forward will conclude his contract in Edinburgh.

▫️ No contract offer on the table
▫️ No bids received in the summer
▫️ He will see out contract as it stands
▫️ Hopes to persuade him to stay on

Hearts CEO Andrew McKinlay provides an update on captain Lawrence Shankland’s future ⤵️ pic.twitter.com/BPPTd7EA5T

— Sky Sports Scotland (@ScotlandSky) September 25, 2024

McKinlay informed Sky Sports, “It has been extensively documented that we did not receive any offers.”

“Which caught me off guard, considering Lawrence’s performances from the previous season.”

“I was definitely not disappointed, as I am thrilled to have Lawrence for the current year and am optimistic about the possibility of extending it.”

“At present, it is intended for this year.”

When asked about the possibility of selling Shankland in January before his contract expires next season, McKinlay responded, “I do not anticipate that there will be a decision to be made in January.”

“At present, it appears that Lawrence will serve out the remaining year of his contract.”

Rangers-affiliated talisman is desired to remain.

The circumstances surrounding Lawrence Shankland at Hearts are certain to make Rangers fans’ antennae perk up.

Fans will be alarmed by the possibility of the Gers signing the boyhood bluenose on a free transfer next summer, despite the perception that the club was being held hostage by Hearts’ valuation during the previous campaign.

Despite Shankland’s current lack of performance, the opportunity to acquire a potent indigenous striker who is well-versed in the intricacies of playing for Rangers is certain to be taken into account at Ibrox.

Hearts and McKinlay are eager to prevent a transfer to Rangers, despite Shankland’s rejection of the Jambos’ most recent contract offer.

McKinlay stated, “Our most recent proposal was declined.” “At present, there is no offer that is available.”

“Clearly, we would engage in a conversation if his advisors or he desired to speak with us.”

McKinlay later stated, “I would be delighted to engage in conversation if it is possible.”

“To determine whether there is a method by which we could persuade him to remain in this location for an extended period.”

McKinlay informed reporters that they would have to inquire with Lawrence regarding whether Shankland’s contract predicament is affecting his performance.

McKinley stated, “Lawrence had a sluggish start to the previous season.” “You do not forfeit what he has acquired over the course of the past two seasons in an instant.”

“He has been exceptional for this club over the past two seasons.” He will return in a very short period of time if it does not return on Saturday.

“I have no doubt about that.”

According to Craig Whyte, HMRC CEO regretted not signing a Rangers contract to avert a “disaster” for the 2012 administration

After the team went into administration, the former owner of the Rangers says he was informed by the tax collector that they wish they had worked things out.

According to Craig Whyte, a senior executive at HMRC informed him that in order to prevent the “disaster” of administration, they “should have done a deal” with Rangers.

The former owner described the notorious off-field altercation in 2012 that led to the club’s collapse and the chat he had with the taxman. Before Whyte bought the club for £1 from David Murray, he says he was informed that HMRC would never prevail in the case against Gers back, but it “became clear” that the debt the team was in at the time was as high as £50 million.

Additionally, he adds that he pushed the government agency to reach an agreement in order to prevent bankruptcy, but when HMRC refused, he says it was “like banging his head against a wall” and implies that it was eventually unavoidable.

“There was a disagreement between HMRC and Rangers in that instance,” he said on Craig Campbell’s SEO show. “Despite repeated assurances from the previous owners that they wouldn’t be able to win the case, Rangers were adamant that they didn’t owe the money. However, later on, the tribunals concluded that they did owe the larger amount, and that became fairly clear shortly after I bought the club.”

After purchasing the team, it was evident in a matter of weeks that this debt, which totaled at least £50 million, would eventually become due. The issue with a well-known company that makes headlines every day is that articles about it appear daily. Any other firm that has this possible liability, which might force them out of business, can choose to ignore it for a while until the proverbial clock strikes nine.

“A high-profile company finds it very difficult to stay in business when there is so much talk about it on social media and in the mainstream media about a crippling debt. “We have to find a solution to this and quickly, or else the club cannot continue,” I said in meetings with HMRC. However, interacting with a government agency is like to hitting a brick wall; they have their own protocols, don’t want to know, and aren’t interested in having a reasoned discussion as two business associates would.

They must follow their bureaucratic processes. It became clear that Rangers had no choice but to file for bankruptcy in order to effectively eliminate their debt. Instead of waiting until many months later, they need to have completed the procedure extremely rapidly in the first two months.”

Whyte went on: “The ultimate result, supposing that the tax authorities declined to reach a settlement, which they did, is that, after the disastrous Rangers bankruptcy process, the head of HMRC said that a solution ought to have been reached, something I repeatedly conveyed to him. perhaps they didn’t want to know that he ought to have made a deal.

“I told them administration is gonna be a disaster and should be avoided in doing it in this uncontrolled way, but they don’t want to listen.”

Rangers player delivers message to Abdallah Sima after what he did in the Champions League

Nico Raskin has messaged former Rangers teammate Abdallah Sima, who scored for Brest in the Champions League.

The Senegalese attacker, who spent the 2023/24 season on loan at Ibrox, scored a second-half goal as the French side defeated Sturm Graz 2-1 on Thursday (19 September).

Sima’s goal gave Brest all three points in their first Champions League match, and the 23-year-old was showered with plaudits, even from former Light Blues colleague Raskin after the final whistle.

Raskin uploaded Brest’s Instagram picture of Sima with the player of the match award, captioned with “Simaaaaaaaaa” with a red love emoji.

What happened to Abdallah Sima after he left Rangers and Ibrox?

The Rangers fans were sad not to be able to sign Sima again this season, but Raksin’s words imply that the players may have been as disappointed that the striker did not return to Ibrox.

Although injuries prevented the Senegal international from playing in the second part of the season, the 23-year-old was one of the Light Blues’ greatest players when healthy and would have been an ideal permanent addition.

Unfortunately, Sima’s value will only rise with goals like those in the Champions League.

If the Gers couldn’t afford to sign him permanently from Brighton last season, that is unlikely to change next year.

Nico Raskin has sent former Rangers teammate Abdallah Sima a new message

Hopefully, Oscar Cortes, Vaclav Cerny, and Rabbi Matondo can give comparable quality out wide, while Cyriel Dessers, Hamza Igamane, and Danilo will routinely find the net.

Sima will be missed at Ibrox, but Clement’s roster has players who can more than fill his shoes.

Dave King reveals £50 million in cash and challenges the Rangers board to an EGM vote

The South African is vying to take over as chairman of the team once again.

In an attempt to become chairman of the team again, Dave King has issued a challenge to the Rangers board to an EGM showdown.

The South African entered the running to succeed John Bennett, who abruptly withdrew for health-related concerns. King, who has experience in this role, pledged to steer the team for a period of two years and get funding in an effort to stabilize the Ibrox organization after “mismanagement” that left them struggling off the field.

Since last week, there have been rumors circulating that the club’s boardroom does not fully believe King is the best candidate for the position. However, King has reportedly challenged the fans to make the final choice by holding an emergency meeting, according to the Rangers Review.

In a statement to the Rangers Review, King said, “We need to find the right CEO and construct an executive team that will take the Club forward.” “Hiring a recruiting firm will be costly and ineffective. This choice serves as further evidence of the board’s detachment from reality and its poor hiring practices.

“I can totally see why a few powerful board members don’t want me back. They are aware from previous interactions that I will not put up with board members who really don’t want to work and are just in it for the “jacket and tie.” I pose a challenge to the board: whether it can, for once, put aside self-interest and prioritize the supporters.

“You must immediately convene an Extraordinary General Meeting and submit your candidacies for reelection, just as I did to remove Ashley. In response, I will propose my own suggestions as well. I will not vote, and neither will any of the current board members who now shield one another from one another. For obvious reasons, John Bennett and George Letham would not be allowed to cast ballots either. In this manner, we may (for once) let fans choose who they want to lead their club.

“Yet, those same faceless people want the chance to do it all again,” King said. John Bennett attempted to turn things around after taking control, but he lacked the financial and people means to do it.

It’s incredible that the same individuals who brought us into this mess want to maintain control by appointing their own professional puppet as chairman, who won’t know anything about the Club and won’t have any financial stake in its success. Rather than attempting to stop them, we are sleepwalking Celtic into titles 55, 56, and 57. This board will live on in the annals of the Club.

“It would take the Club at least £50 million to accomplish our short- to medium-term goals, but with the current board structure, that amount could never be raised.” To advance the Club and transform into a contemporary football club, we need funding from a significantly larger and richer base as well as from parties who will be prepared to commit more (over time).

EXCLUSIVE! Rangers will receive millions from Hamza Igamane in his next transfer because “another step” has already been planned out

The striker’s breakthrough came from manager Sven Vandenbroeck of Zulte Waregem.

The first Belgian manager to recognize Hamza Igamane’s star potential thinks the financially strapped Rangers will make millions of dollars after acquiring the Moroccan for a pittance.

Three years ago, when he was in charge of ASFAR Rabat, Zulte Waregem manager Sven Vandenbroeck was the one who quickly brought Igamane up to the top team in football. Additionally, the 44-year-old has supported fellow countryman Philippe Clement’s assertions that if the Ibrox club had delayed bringing in the striker from North Africa this summer in a deal estimated to be worth £2 million, they would not have been able to afford to acquire him.

According to Vandenbroeck, a number of French clubs were already keeping a close eye on Igamane’s development prior to Rangers moving up to the top of the list with a five-year contract. Additionally, he thinks the 21-year-old, who just made his way into Clement’s first team, will use his time playing football in Scotland to secure a higher-profile contract elsewhere.

Vandenbroeck stated in an exclusive interview with Record Sport: “Is he capable of playing at a very high level? It’s never easy to predict that. However, I do believe he has one more step to go.

“I’m glad he’s moving toward Scotland now rather than England at first; that move might have been too quick and premature. This is an excellent intermediate step from which he can advance to a higher level English team. Therefore, I believe that this step has chosen his path well.

According to Vandenbroek, Igamane’s rigorous upbringing as a youth team player who completed ASFAR’s military-affiliated academy prepared him for a career in professional football. Furthermore, he thinks it was only a matter of time until the European game tempted him.

“They learn about structure, they have school, and they have discipline from the academy,” he said, referring to the army club where he played. He joined the first team and was a prolific goal scorer for the next two seasons. Many clubs are interested in him because he and his team won the championship, particularly in France.

Thus, the time was right to purchase him. I believe the Rangers would have to pay two or three times as much for him if he played for one more year, maybe even two. Since he could only speak Arabic at the time, I believe he needs to start taking English classes. That leaves me with only one question: the language.

“He was extremely shy as well, but he may have already made some progress with that because he played more games for the first team and was under more pressure from the media and other sources. However, I am aware that language barriers can exist.

Igamane didn’t make his debut as a substitute against Celtic in a 3-0 derby day loss until the beginning of this month, demonstrating Clement’s refusal to put the young player through a fast pace of play since the beginning of the season. However, he made an outstanding second consecutive cameo from the bench at Tannadice on Sunday, and he might get his first start when the League Cup quarterfinal against Dundee takes place this weekend.

Vandenbroek continued, saying, “I believe the Rangers have enough people on the payroll to make these decisions, but Philipp didn’t speak to me before he signed Igamane. Given his age and the early stage of the season, I believe he is already demonstrating that his abilities and potential are sufficient to justify bringing him into the team.

Philippe Clement discloses moment John Bennett advised him he was resigning from Rangers chief following “doctor’s decision”

The Light Blues dropped Dundee United to return to winning ways to brighten a trying fortnight.

Philippe Clement has promised that now people are returning home to Ibrox will see a quite different Rangers.

As a Tom Lawrence goal won the game, the Light Blues returned to winning ways at Tannadice and placed third. After their disastrous Derby and sets things up nicely for their long overdue return to home, when they play Dundee in the Premier Sports Cup on Saturday, it gives Rangers confidence boosting results.

A big mistake and delayed arrival of steel meant that the Copland Stand’s construction had to be postponed and that Rangers had to play their home games at Hampden.Clement said: “Going back there is amazing. With our supporters, our fans made it almost a home game today; at Ibrox, ten times more. Therefore, everyone in the club—all the team, all the staff—is quite eager to release this vitality at Ibrox.

Rangers boss Philippe Clement

Clement has acknowledged that John Bennett’s leaving hurts him. The manager of the Rangers admitted that his doctor forced him to make the decision since he had no other option. Clement said Bennett will still have influence at Rangers, but his first concern is recovering to full health.

The Belgian said, “Yeah, of course, you want nothing like this. John told me thus most likely first to learn about that during the week. He patiently went over everything with me. Not his choice is what I mean. That is a doctor’s decision.

“He had to make the choice with great heart pain as well. Though he won’t be away, I wish him all the best to heal as quickly as possible. He will be present at a distance, but right now he must keep a small distance to recover first.

Along with the chief executive, it is another essential post that Rangers needs filled. Though it is something Clement is ready to handle, it increases pressure on him.

“I believe I have been the only one chatting outside until now,” he remarked. That helps to keep things rather consistent. Possibly it will change next week. We will check. I am not the man bringing cash or money into the club.

“My responsibilities are to maximise the players already present in the building, search for new ones alongside the recruitment team, and make appropriate decisions using our current budget.

“That is what I am supposed to do; I shall keep in that vein. But I also had a lot of conversations about strategic issues for the future of the club and to improve things in the club, in everything, but also in Scottish football before with James (Bisgrove) and John. Thus, I believe it will carry on with the fresh arrivals.

Clement has downplayed enquiries he has felt under pressure recently. He said, adamant: “No, no, no pressure. Nobody else is exerting more pressure on me than myself. Every game I want to ace. I’m not happy. I advised you folks as well. I loose hate.

“So I hated that and I wanted the team to react, but it’s also my job to keep everything calm at the proper times also. Sadly, in the past I could go on the pitch and then adjust things. That is not the situation anymore. But I really see great promise in this team.”

Steven Gerrard supported to enable amazing Rangers comeback – pundit

Given doubts about Philippe Clement’s future, Rangers should look to title-winning former manager Steven Gerrard.

Speaking on the most recent Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, ex-England custodian Paul Robinson has supported his former colleague to seize the chance to retake control of Rangers, but he acknowledges that this club is “very different” from the one he took over back in 2018.

Following almost a decade of extreme upheaval on and off the pitch, the 44-year-old manager was able to steady the Rangers ship, guiding them to the 2020-21 Scottish Premier League championship.

Following Rangers’ devastating loss to Celtic, Football Insider revealed (September 6) that Philippe Clement is “fighting for his job” at the club.

Rangers should look to Steven Gerrard; the Ibrox supporters would “love it”.

After five attempts, Clement has yet to win an Old Firm Derby; he draws one and loses the other four, including their most recent 3-0 loss in the first of the 2024-25 season.

By contrast, during his just over two-year tenure at the club Gerrard won eight, drew one, and lost four derbies.

“They always say never go back, don’t they?” Robinson asked Football Insider.

And with Steven, consider the legacy he left; I truly do think he did a fantastic job there.

“I think there would be an opportunity there for him to go back; it would be a great hire and the supporters would love it, but I think it would be a very different Rangers to the one he took over.

“You fall much behind the lads across the city, thus the squad is clearly quite different under Clement, regardless of how you get on against everyone else.

“Missing the Champions League; their performance against Celtic, yes they got beat 3-0 but they were still in the game.

“Brendan Rodgers has a fantastic record in Old Firm derbies; I believe this will be how they are assessed.

Rangers’ forward players are not as good right now as those of Celtic, thus I believe this is the reason they are lagging.

The difference is growing as you examine what they have spent over the past year against what Celtic has spent, then compare the two bank balances.

For Rangers supporters, that is unsettling. Clement did a rather good job; when he first arrived, they had an undefeated run of victories.

“Considering his style of play and the players he has lost off the pitch, I believe his hands have been somewhat tied.

“There is a bit of a disjointed feeling among the club and supporters at the moment; playing at Hampden Park hasn’t really worked out for them, thankfully they are back at Ibrox.”

For the fans, all of their Europa League matches will take place at Ibrox, which is significant.

“I think the next Old Firm is key, but I think it’s a little bit early to discuss his job.”

Agents send Rangers a contract termination update based on Hagi’s exit choice – report

Though his agents have told Digi Sport, Ianis Hagi will “categorically” not be leaving Rangers and still hopes to find his place in the first team.

The website of the Romanian outlet on September 12 claims that the possibility of a contract termination, tipped as advised as the transfer window closed in Scotland, is not realistic.

Since returning from loan at Alaves last season, Philippe Clement has clearly indicated he has no intentions for Hagi [Daily Mail, 31 August] and has left him in the B Team.

However, the Spanish company representing the 25-year-old has said he has no desire in leaving to a league where the window is still open and is “fighting” for another chance at Ibrox, hoping his international performances for Romania will persuade Clement to veer off course.

One source at his agency said: ” Ianis is not leaving for another team; he is fighting for a chance at Rangers. After Romania’s games, let’s see whether he will be part of the first team’s lineup.”

Ianis Hagi battles for Rangers return under Philippe Clement.

After he went to Instagram on September 7 to distance himself from remarks from another well-known Romanian agent, it seems the most recent update truly reflects Hagi’s own opinion of the matter.

If so, Giovanni Becali’s assertions seem to be too far from the truth after he advised fan pressure may help turn Clement towards providing the attacker a route back in [Fanatik, 6 September] and an exit to Greece didn’t seem to be on.

Hagi seems so focused on pushing his way back in at Ibrox, which is commendable given such contentious stand-offs usually arise from players trying to leave a team, as was apparently the case with Todd Cantwell this summer.

When there was a dearth of senior options available, Clement’s refusal to consider using an international attacker who has performed well for the B Team seems absolutely open to criticism and seems most likely to be related to the contract clause apparently present in Hagi’s deal that has the club on the hook for more money [Daily Record, 13 August].

However, if the Belgian is adamant that he is not interested there comes a time when Hagi and his delegates are just pounding their heads against a brick wall and it no longer makes sense to reject other possibilities.

Before the transfer deadline [Sky Sports, 26 August], a move to Rapid Bucharest was rejected; it is unknown whether any other interested teams have open windows.

James Tavernier turned down the opportunity to travel to Turkey, and Clement is reported to be content to be working with the captain [HITC, September 12].

But he apparently feels quite different about Hagi, which would help to explain why the impasse could last at least the next four months.

A glowing transfer report from the manager reveals the Rangers’ departure

As a Besiktas move now appears unlikely before the Turkish deadline, Giovanni van Bronckhorst will be closely watching Rangers developments surrounding James Tavernier, according to Haber Turk.

After learning that four Istanbul clubs were considering a late move following their defeat to Celtic in the Old Firm derby, the outlet announced on their website on 10 September that the Ibrox captain is not anticipated to leave Ibrox before the Super Lig’s transfer window closes [HITC, 6 September].

Tavernier is rumoured to have received a stellar transfer report from Van Bronckhorst’s Besiktas superiors, but he and other interested parties will have to wait until January as the Light Blues are unlikely to permit a move without securing a replacement.

Former Rangers star Giovanni van Bronckhorst wants to be charged

Naturally, the loss at Parkhead has had a significant impact, but it would still be a very dramatic step for Tavernier to request a departure after the Scottish deadline and for Philippe Clement to approve the departure.

Following his departure from Hull City at the end of the previous season, Cyrus Christie has been linked as a free agent replacement [HITC, September 7], but there aren’t many options available.

When the captain does decide to move on, Dujon Sterling is expected to take up the mantle at Ibrox [Rangers Review, June 17]. Neraysho Kasanwirjo, a Deadline Day addition, can also cover on the right of defence.

However, Clement’s team appears weaker now than it did at the beginning of the transfer window, and his injury problems have made him even less effective.

With interest from the Middle East as well, nothing is certain until all transfer windows have closed, but it appears that Tavernier, 32, will be staying at least through the winter.

If there is such widespread interest, a January move could now be very likely. He was widely expected to move on in the previous market, and recent developments may have suggested the current campaign is a bridge too far.

Rangers ‘need’ £3 million playmaker since former Ibrox stopper suggests behind-scenes conflict

Rangers need all the help they can get right now, and supporters could do with a lift following the Old Firm Derby in such depressing fashion.

Philippe Clement discussed perhaps signing a number six following the obvious gap in midfield once more.

Ianis Hagi’s return would also be welcomed, not necessarily because he is a world beater but rather because he is better than several players who are now playing week in, week out and him sitting in the stands just doesn’t make sense.

According to Dorin Goian, Ianis Hagi has fallen out with Rangers boss.

Former Rangers centre-half and Romania international Dorin Goian claims in The Daily Record that Hagi’s ommission has nothing to do with ability or pay.

Ianis Hagi is a really good player. Given that he is not on the best of terms with the manager at Rangers, he is sadly not enjoying himself there.

“His calling to our national team is also to help his morale; thus, I believe that our manager Mircea Lucescu made the appropriate decision in selecting him. It gives him more confidence, and Rangers under more pressure now to play him.

“Things are not rosy; Rangers are not performing very well; they have just been outclassed in the Old Firm. I am aware that supporters of Ianis Hagi are calling for his comeback to the first team.

“The truth is that Rangers have a gifted football player there who was performing rather brilliantly until he sustained an injury. Now that he has been called up and performed so brilliantly at the Euros, the Rangers manager is under more pressure to make more use of him since something has to change when things do not go as planned.

Ianis ought to play for Rangers, in my opinion. He is a technical player capable of defeating a man. He can also make a great pass; in Scotland, there are few players with his calibre. Rangers mostly attack, thus they require players like Ianis Hagi.

Rangers must figure out how to have Hagi back on action.

Hagi should be playing for Rangers.

Given Scott Wright left the club and wasn’t replaced, the £3 million signing isn’t going to bankrupt the club on extra £6,000 per week regardless of any contract clause.

On transfer deadline day, Samuel Edozie makes a late move indicating the funds are there.

True enough, Clement might be acquiring a new player for just £6,000 a week.

Seeing it like that seems like a bargain.

Is Hagi among Rangers’ top earners worth having?

The response is, until they play him, they will not know.

What is known is that Rangers require more depth in attack and Rabbi Matondo will be absent for the next two months at least.

Todd Cantwell finally spoke out about his plans to leave the Rangers in response to Philippe Clement’s stories

Todd Cantwell has spoken out after leaving Rangers in the summer and responded to what manager Philippe Clement said.

The 26-year-old put in a transfer request during the window and finally left the Gers on August 30 to join Blackburn Rovers in the Championship [The 4th Official].

Cantwell hadn’t said much since moving to Ewood Park, but he finally talked about leaving Rangers with Sky Sports on September 5 and explained why he was looking for a new job this summer.

“Some things changed with the staff,” he said. It seemed different, and when a new manager takes over, they change things. We got a bounce and were in a good spot.

“I respect the manager at Rangers, but I didn’t think it was the right place for me. That’s my choice.” You don’t have to look too far to learn how to play team sports and improve your own skills. “I made a brave choice; let’s see how it turns out.”

On the other hand, the Englishman wrote down something to discredit what Clement said before he left.

He told them, “It was his choice to tell the press that I chose to leave.” We talked about it before the season ended, but we still couldn’t find a solution that worked for both of us.

“I never, ever said I don’t want to play for Rangers Football Club. That’s the one thing I want to make clear, and I touched on it on Instagram.” I would never say that, and I never will.

This summer, Todd Cantwell would have stayed with the Rangers.

No matter what Cantwell wanted, it was clear during the summer transfer window that his time at Rangers would come to an end.

The first thing Clement did was say that his former midfielder wanted to leave the Light Blues badly and that he would only take players who wanted to fight for the Rangers shirt after August 30 [Sky Sports].

During his time in Scotland, Cantwell showed signs of talent. In an ideal world, the Englishman would have been able to put an end to the bad things that happened over the summer by focussing on consistently doing well for the club.

The story went in a different direction, though. Rangers will feel cheated because they only got back £500,000 for a player who was worth many millions of pounds earlier in the summer, but everyone should be happy with the outcome.

The player who used to play for Rangers has every right to respond to what the Belgian said. Fans will decide who is telling the truth, but that doesn’t matter right now because the team has much bigger problems this season.

Following a disappointing 3-0 loss to Celtic in the first Old Firm derby of the season, Clement may come to regret letting Cantwell leave, as the gap between his team and the current Scottish Premiership champions is still very clear.

”Horrible’ – Four Lads respond to the Rangers’ official announcement from the previous day

According to Four Lads Had a Dream, the Sunday 8 p.m. Rangers vs. St Johnstone match is terrible news for both sets of supporters.

On September 4th, Gers officially announced that the match would take place on October 6th at Ibrox.

That’s because it’s the day of the Great Scottish Run in Glasgow, which makes hosting the afternoon game impossible.

“St Johnstone at Ibrox now 8pm on Sunday, October 6th,” Four Lads wrote. terrible for both groups of partisans.

Rangers vs. St Johnstone will be a spectator-only match

Sunday’s late kickoff throws off fans’ usual weekend schedules and makes travel arrangements more difficult, particularly for those who are travelling internationally or from a distant place.

This timing could create logistical havoc, with public transportation possibly operating on shortened Sunday schedules or even closing early, leaving fans stranded or requiring them to pay more for private or taxi transportation.

The Great Scottish Run further complicates things because of the potential for road closures and increased traffic due to the event’s logistics, which would lengthen travel times and worsen congestion near Ibrox.

This combination detracts from the overall matchday experience and makes getting to and from the game more difficult, making an exciting event for fans into a logistical headache.

The clubs knew that if some fans couldn’t make it, others could, and it wouldn’t affect their bottom line, so they should have declined it instead of giving in.

St Johnstone at Ibrox now 8pm on Sunday 6th October

Horrible for both sets of supporters https://t.co/bA5qgFQ2Kk

— Four Lads Had A Dream (@4ladshadadream) September 4, 2024

It’s an absurd method of managing clubs, and it will be especially detrimental to the returning travelling support.

“Irrelevant” is what Chris Sutton calls the Rangers man as he gives his “Mad Rant” verdict.

Chris Sutton thinks that Philippe Clement, the manager of Rangers, is crazy when he talks about what happened after Celtic lost.

He believes the Belgian is becoming like Pedro Caixinha and is not the manager he was before taking over.

The rivals, Celtic, beat Gers 3-0 at Celtic Park, and the team is already behind in the race for the SPFL title.

On September 2, Sutton told the Daily Record, “I always think about how I felt like Pedro Caixinha was not telling the truth when he spoke.” That was his issue, and Clement is going in the same direction. I thought he was calm and spoke clearly when he first came to Rangers. I don’t know what happened or if it’s just the way things are in Glasgow, but he seemed to be losing it.

“Everyone who saw the game knows that Celtic and Rangers are very different in every way.” It’s almost crazy to come out after the fact and say that things weren’t that bad. Unless he needs time to make changes, what he says is just plain wrong, and that’s a big deal. His fans listen to everything he says. It doesn’t make sense to try to paint that picture after those fans have just seen a scary show.

“Rangers were hacked.” Anyone with a clear head could see that Celtic is much better and could have scored five or six goals. It doesn’t matter that he says they should have been ahead 2-0. What are four shots on target each? By the time the game was over, Kasper Schmeichel had only made two real saves. The score was already 3-0. Same stats for possession? The crazy rant about how old squads are on average? Brag about beating Ross County, who have had a terrible season so far?”

Philippe Clement is partly to blame for what’s going wrong at Rangers.

Fans and other important people seem to be losing trust in Clement because of what he said.

The Belgian seems to be avoiding the real problem, which is that Rangers and Celtic are not performing at the same level, by playing down the loss with stats like possession and shots on target.

This method not only misrepresents the story of the game, but it also doesn’t show the team’s flaws, which is important for holding them accountable and helping them get better.

Fans and analysts alike expect managers to own up to losses like these and use them as chances to learn instead of avoiding the issue with pointless metrics.

People might think that Clement isn’t a good leader because he won’t or can’t face the team’s problems head-on. This is especially true in a high-pressure setting like Glasgow, where results and honest evaluations are very important.

Things need to change quickly on the practice field so that they can be used on the field of play. We need to act quickly.

Todd Cantwell says the club is different from the one he signed for and disputes that he threw his towel in at Rangers

Following his bargain £600k move to Blackburn, the midfield player has headed straight for social media to respond to his detractors.

agitatedTodd Cantwell insists he never turned down the opportunity to play for the Ibrox team and that he signed with a different Rangers team than the one he is currently with.

Following his cut-price £600k move to Blackburn Rovers, the midfield player has rushed to social media to respond to his snipers and heap praise on Rangers supporters.After a preseason loss to Birmingham, Philippe Clement returned to a packed press room and declared that Cantwell wanted out of Ibrox. The playmaker, though, is certain he would have worn the light blue again.

“It’s been an honour to play for this incredible football club; some of the staff behind the scenes are the hardest of workers but also incredible people,” Cantwell insisted in an Instagram post. I have had a great time playing in the renowned blue and have given it my all each and every time. It was never my decision to say that I didn’t want to play for the club, and I never would. My family and I have always been Rangers. The Rangers I signed with are not the same as the ones I’m leaving. Mon the Germans.”

“God forbid,” says a pundit in response to Rangers’ news about a striker who won’t leave the club

Derek Ferguson says it’s a worry that Rangers won’t sign another striker before the transfer window closes because Cyriel Dessers is now the team’s main player.

Luca Bendoni told X on August 20 that Atlanta United was close to making a £4.5 million deal for the Nigerian international, but they were unable to come to an agreement with him.

And Chris Jack wrote on The Rangers Review’s website on August 27 that since the MLS deal didn’t go through, a new number nine isn’t likely to arrive before the deadline.

Ferguson is glad the Dessers deal didn’t go through because the Gers have no other options with Danilo being half-fit and Hamza Igamane not having been seen yet. But he is worried that another player won’t be signed.

He only told Ibrox News this: “For a club the size of Rangers, and if you want to compete with Celtic, you need players to step up and play.”

“Right now, nobody is challenging Dessers, which is why you should praise his attitude: he’s been criticised and abused so much that he could just snap out of it and get another club.”

“But he wouldn’t leave last week, so we’re just grateful that he’s scoring goals right now.” Please don’t hurt him, because we’re going to have a hard time, and I don’t see anyone on the B Team either.

“That worries me.” We need something to cover our heads. There are many places where we need cover. But the way Clement plays football makes me worry about what would happen if he got hurt or quit the club.

Cyriel Dessers is the top Rangers striker and turned down a move to Atlanta United

Philippe Clement relies on Cyriel Dessers a lot at Rangers

This late in the window, Rangers are stuck because Dessers is both the only striker they can realistically sell and the player they depend on in that position.

The former Cremonese forward got off to a rough start in Glasgow but scored 22 goals last season while everyone else was hurt or out of form. He has already scored five more goals this season because there are no other options.

For that, he deserves praise, and despite his flaws, the team’s hopes for the future rest on his shoulders. However, with rumours of transfers for Hearts captain Lawrence Shankland [Daily Record, 2 August] and now-Sparta Prague striker Albion Rrahmani [Football Scotland, 17 June], it was long thought that a new number one would come along.

It was risky to spend money on a project like Igamane earlier in the summer, but it will have to pay off in the end.

Fans may have liked another centre forward to have been brought in instead of Sam Lammers, even though Vaclav Cerny has done well on loan from Wolfsburg so far.

Chris Jack moots Rangers player exit, because he wants to play for a top Europa League club

Chris Jack thinks that Ianis Hagi will leave Rangers before the transfer deadline. However, Hagi wants to join a team in the top league.

Sky Sports reports that the Romanian player turned down the chance to move from Ibrox to Rapid Bucharest in his home country.

Jack has said that the 25-year-old will still leave Liverpool if a team from a top European league makes an offer.

He said on August 27’s Rangers Review, “We don’t think he’ll be a Rangers player for much longer.” He should be able to leave the club by the end of this week.

“It shouldn’t come as a surprise that he has decided not to go back to Romania.” It would feel like going very far backwards.

„He and his team think he can play well and be in a top-five league. It’s not the fee that matters, it’s the wages. Rangers need to get something for him.

Ianis Hagi wants to leave Rangers for a club in Europe.

The attacking midfielder had a great time at the 2024 European Championships, so it looked like he would be moving on from Ibrox.

Hagi is still stuck in Glasgow, and there are only a few days left in the transfer window. If a deal isn’t made soon, he might have to play for Philippe Clement’s team.

Because of what the Romanian can bring to the team, this could definitely be a good thing for them and their season aims.

After making it clear that he wants to leave, they will have to find a new team for the former Genk player.

He wants to move to a top team in a European league, so it’s not clear what he thinks will happen in the last few days of the window.

Since his time on loan with Alavez wasn’t great, it will be interesting to see who signs the midfielder.

“Why not?” Andy Halliday urges Clement to make a major change for Rangers against Celtic

Andy Halliday has recommended that Rangers manager Philippe Clement think about making a significant formation change for the team’s trip to Celtic the following weekend.

After three rounds of fixtures, the Gers trail Celtic, their bitter rivals, by two points going into their first Old Firm match of the season.

In their recent meetings with Celtic, Rangers has fared poorly too frequently; Halliday thinks this can be improved with a different tactic.

He stated on the Clyde 1 Superscoreboard [26 August] that “Celtic would have identified Rangers’ weaknesses going into the game this weekend, and I don’t really know what Rangers can do to counter that to Celtic.”

Sometimes, someone will call in and ask to “play two up front?” Actually, I think I might give something a try this weekend. The Rangers have a lot of personnel, so why not try a 3-5-2?

Celtic can attack both of your full-backs from a defensive position. Rangers should go with two up top since Celtic will only have two centre halves available. How about using Rabbi Matondo up above?

Halliday responded, “It would be harsh on Tom Lawrence, but he’s showed in Old Firm games that athleticism lets him down,” when it was brought up that it would mean leaving someone out. How about attempting something different?

For Celtic vs. Rangers, Philippe Clement might try something different.

Last weekend, Clement used his tried-and-true 4-2-3-1 against Ross County, and it was a great strategy—albeit against a weak opponent.

Both Matondo and Cyriel Dessers scored twice in the team’s victory, which raised everyone’s spirits.

It would be a huge risk to tear that up, but in recent derbies, Celtic have far too frequently had Rangers under siege.

In the end, a point from Sunday’s match on September 1 would be regarded as a favourable outcome; three points would be even better.

It is much more likely that Clement will start with the same lineup that faced Ross County, injury permitting.

😷 “I think it’s just masking the problems that we’ve got”

🤷‍♂️ “What are Rangers identifying as Celtic’s weakness just now because I don’t know”

🔵 Billy in Clydebank is fearing that Rangers’ result against Ross County is just papering over the cracks at Ibrox pic.twitter.com/u70mcCIZL5

— Clyde 1 Superscoreboard (@ClydeSSB) August 26, 2024

Although Matondo, Lawrence, a consistent starter, and Dessers still have their detractors, they will all be feeling very positive following their performance over the weekend.

To make sure there isn’t a five-point difference at the end of the ninety minutes, whoever is chosen just needs to give it their all.

Pundit opinion: Star striker desired to join the Rangers, and Clement attempted to sign him once more

Derek Ferguson claims that Brighton has retaliated against Rangers by striking an agreement with Brest for Abdallah Sima in advance of the deadline.

Although it was not feasible to afford the Senegalese forward earlier in the transfer window, Philippe Clement acknowledged that he wanted to bring him back to Ibrox this season [Rangers Review, 15 July].

After communicating with the attacker, the Belgian thought a deal might be possible later in the summer. However, he has now completed an official loan move to Ligue 1, which comes without a buyout option [Foot Mercato, 20 August].

Ferguson is frustrated that he hasn’t been able to rejoin Rangers, but he thinks Brighton is trying to increase his visibility in a wider market.

In an interview with Ibrox News only, he stated: “Yeah, but I think that’s Brighton pulling rank.” Sima would have been thrilled to be playing for Rangers again in Scotland.

“The supporters adore him. I find him genuinely endearing. He has produced and scored goals during his playing career.

However, Brighton has a player that they most likely want to let go of and receive some cash for.

“So, he moved to what is likely a better league—well, that league is better—over there. He will play football in the Champions League. They must take care of their own needs.

Would he have preferred to be up here, Sima? Yes. Would the manager have cherished having him play for the Rangers? Naturally. He has said very nice things about him.

However, I believe that’s just Brighton pulling rank and trying to get the best deal possible for a player who will be entering the final year of his contract [upon his return] and needs to try and get paid a little bit of money.

Brighton star not signed by Rangers after confirmed departure from Brest

Given that Sima made multiple indications of wanting to return to Glasgow during his 16-goal season with the Light Blues, it isn’t wishful thinking to assume he would have made that decision.

The 23-year-old then posted a message on Instagram on August 23, thanking the supporters and his manager at Ibrox, suggesting that he was still considering a return until his France switch was officially announced.

If he hadn’t planned on returning, the letter probably would have arrived months ago when his first loan expired.

Sima and Clement will therefore be disappointed by the confirmed Brest deal, especially given that Oscar Cortes sustained an injury not long after taking his place for the second time.

View: Rangers projected starting lineup vs. Ross Co.: Clement to bench three players, exit-linked ace to start

When Philippe Clement’s Rangers team plays Ross County in the Scottish Premiership on Saturday, August 24, he is anticipated to make four changes.

Following their goal-scoring cameos against St Johnstone last weekend, Cyriel Dessers and Ross McCausland are anticipated to return to the starting lineup, along with Connor Barron and Leon Balogun.

After suffering an injury in the Scottish League Cup match, Robin Propper is the biggest doubt to play, with Kieran Dowell, Rabbi Matondo, and Danilo all likely to be left off of Clement’s starting lineup.

Before facing Ross County, Philippe Clement needs to get the Rangers lineup just right.

At Hampden on Saturday, Clement cannot afford to make a mistake in his selection, and the Belgian custodian Jack Butland, who is currently ranked first, provides him with a strong platform on which to build.

After suffering an injury against St Johnstone, Clement would be prudent to avoid taking a chance on Propper in this game. As a result, Balogun, along with John Souttar in central defence, should start in place of the Dutchman.

Due to injuries and a lack of alternatives, the defense’s flanks choose themselves. After receiving a controversial red card against Dynamo Kyiv, Jefte played the entire ninety minutes against Saints and is still on the left side.

Despite rumours of a move elsewhere, Captain James Tavernier is also a clear choice on the right [TEAMtalk, July 19]. Dujon Sterling is expected to continue playing a utility role in midfield for the team.

The absence of an obvious number six and number ten for the Gers leaves Clement in need of versatile options, and Barron is expected to replace the unimpressive Dowell.

Since his £4.3 million transfer from Nordsjaelland was finalised over the summer, Mohamed Diomande has been a constant. He will probably start alongside Barron and Sterling as the most advanced midfield player.

Vaclav Cerny has had a great start to his Glasgow career. He will continue to play on the right even though McCausland replaces him against Saints; minutes later, the young player makes it 2-0.

Although McCausland has earned a start, it will probably come in place of Rabbi Matondo, who is linked to the exit, on the left rather than the right, so that Clement can take advantage of both Cerny’s and his speed out wide.

The most accurate change the Belgian will make up front is to add top scorer Cyriel Dessers back into the lineup. Dessers replaced Danilo on the bench during halftime against St Johnstone.

Although Danilo’s first start of the season after an injury is encouraging, Clement only needs to look to Dessers as his number nine if the Gers are to stay competitive.

Frustrated Rangers player posts a defiant message on Instagram as he strives to become his best again

Please pardon Rangers supporters for feeling uneasy about Brazilian forward Danilo.

The 25-year-old striker has spent the better part of nine months recovering from a serious injury that kept him out of competition.

That’s not precisely what the former Feyenoord striker would have expected following his £6 million summer transfer to Rangers.

Going back to the Ibrox fold in the Premier Sports Cup victory over St Johnstone, it’s possible that the optimism surrounding Danilo’s recuperation was lost amidst the Govan situation.

However, the striker’s medical history, which dates back to a horrific facial injury he suffered against the same opponents the previous season, guarantees that the club’s support isn’t ready to get out of hand.

Danilo has now asked for patience as the devout hitman reiterates his resolve to return to his peak performance by quoting a Bible passage.

Danilo asks for endurance after the Rangers’ comeback.

Danilo may have scored a hat-trick in the first half of the match against the Perthshire club, but there was enough to suggest the striker will get opportunities at Rangers.

The Rangers have the backing of some of the harshest football judges, but the jury will not be out until the Brazilian starts turning away opportunities.

Danilo, unfazed and ever the defiant one, has taken to social media to remind the Rangers supporters to be patient with him while he returns to full fitness.

Romans 8:25, which is cited in the post, states that we must wait patiently for what we hope for in order to obtain it.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Danilo Pereira (@danilo_pereira)

Could a Brazilian striker make a difference at Ibrox?

Since the striker has never been healthy enough to truly have an impact on the team, Danilo is somewhat of a forgotten quantity at Rangers.

But the striker did show glimpses of his potential before that serious injury suffered against Hearts in December, which is why Rangers paid such a high price for the hitman.

With 21 appearances (ten starts) and six goals and five assists, Danilo was scoring for the Gers approximately every 166 minutes prior to the injury.

In the coming weeks, Rangers supporters will be hoping to witness the best of the Brazilian, and there is reason for optimism regarding the forward.

Danilo has already demonstrated incredible mental toughness by recovering from his injury and joining the starting lineup.

The next task is to go back to playing at his peak and show Rangers’ supporters that he can make a difference even though they are still not convinced.

Report: Rangers are “open to five sales” in order to finance the final details of their summer rebuild

Rangers will need to sell before they can buy during this transfer window, as Philippe Clement has stated time and time again.

The Belgian manager has occasionally presented a frustrated image while trying to turn around his Ibrox squad on a tight budget, spending every dollar like a prisoner in Govan.

Speaking over the weekend, Clement reiterated that before Rangers can focus on any other targets, they must release players from the team.

The issue is that Clement “cannot hold a gun” to the heads of the players who have been told they can leave the Rangers, as he himself stated.

Leading Scottish football writer Chris Jack has now asserted that Rangers are prepared to let go of at least five players this summer.

Rangers are “open to five departures.”

Chris Jack has been writing about the Rangers team’s exits and the current status of play in the Rangers Review.

Jack mentions five players as being for sale while talking about the tectonic transfer plates that need to move under Ibrox before the team can afford to sign any new players.

First on the list is international playmaker Ioanis Hagi of Romania, who was informed at the start of the summer that Clement had no plans for him.

It has been suggested that the Rangers could sell Hagi for nothing in order to clear space on the wage bill. Hagi spent the previous season on loan at Alavés in La Liga.

Hagi is still competing for the Rangers B team, but it’s still unclear how close the Euro 2024 player is to working out a deal to leave Ibrox.

Todd Cantwell, the English playmaker who has expressed his desire to move on this summer, is also mentioned.

Supporters of the Rangers will be hoping that occurs sooner rather than later.

The other three individuals that Chris Jack brought up are Scott Wright, Ben Davies, and Rabbi Matondo.

Links between Leeds United and Rabbi Matondo were scuttled as soon as they surfaced, and Ben Davies is, in terms of value, among the worst signings in Rangers history.

Despite being a homegrown talent on the team, Scott Wright is in the last year of his contract and has been “offered” several times to play in the lower leagues in England.

Rangers’ window for transfers is still open.

The fact that these five players might still depart Rangers before the transfer window closes demonstrates the extent of this summer’s changes at Ibrox.

Additionally, the severity of the team’s recent season-long deficiencies.

Rangers’ finances have been chronically mismanaged, and the team’s transfer market activities are still under intense scrutiny.

Rangers great Ally McCoist says he is “truly devastated” by the situation the Ibrox team is in this summer.

Numerous previously important first-team players, such as Ryan Jack, Borna Barisic, Connor Goldson, John Lundstram, and Kemar Roofe, have already been let go by the Rangers.

Rangers fans have been waiting a long time for this transformative summer as they try to rise above the disappointments of the past few seasons.

Hopefully, we can get these guys out of the team so that we can sign players that Clement has identified in advance of the upcoming season.

Pundit says it “would not surprise you” if Rangers allow a last-minute exit for a Clement regular

Rangers can’t sell James Tavernier right now, but Leanne Crichton thinks the Light Blues would let him go if a last-minute offer came in.

There has been a lot of talk about the Gers captain during the summer transfer window. Reports say Trabzonspor have made several attempts to sign him [Rangers Review, 23 July].

The English player has been a regular in Philippe Clement’s team so far this season, but Go Radio host Crichton thinks the Ibrox board would be swayed by the money his departure could bring in.

She said on The Go Radio Football Show (August 15, 1:04:20): “For example, the talk about James Tavernier has gone pretty quiet.”

“There was a lot of talk about whether he would leave or not. Imagine if Rangers also sold James Tavernier before the end of the transfer window?

“At a time when the players on the pitch aren’t quite good enough and the players on the bench aren’t fit and available, the players who are out don’t look like they’ll be back any time soon, and then there’s James Tavernier, who’s always fit, always available and always on the teamsheet.”

“It’s likely to happen because that’s the kind of choice that wouldn’t surprise rangers right now.” There’s no way they can sell him, but they might if they could get the money for the club.

Will James Tavernier leave Rangers amid rumours of a move to Ibrox?

Even the most pessimistic Rangers fans will agree that Clement can’t afford to lose the Englishman at this point in the window. Fans have been split on Tavernier for a while now.

The current Gers team lacks depth and quality, and they won’t be able to close the gap on Celtic at the top of the table unless more players are added before the second-to-last day of the transfer window.

Rangers manager Philippe Clement

Some people will say that Tavernier is part of the problem and call him a serial loser, but he is one of the few players on Clement’s team who is always healthy and ready to play.

He’s not the same player he was five years ago, but he still scores goals regularly, and his delivery from set pieces is dangerous.

It would have been easy to stop his sale earlier in the summer, but now it is a risk that doesn’t need to be taken. We hope that the Light Blues’ board doesn’t make a choice that they will later regret.

Leeds to sign Rangers attacker – report

Rabbi Matondo, a winger for Rangers, is reportedly wanted by Leeds United, per Football Scotland.

According to the news source, Daniel Farke has expressed “strong” interest in moving permanently or in taking out a first loan with a buyout option as of August 15.

According to rumours, Matondo plans to depart Ibrox before the August 30 deadline, following in the footsteps of players like Todd Cantwell and Ianis Hagi.

Rabbi Matondo ready to move to Leeds United

Leeds United’s season has clearly gotten off to a difficult start.

They not only lost to Middlesbrough 3-0 in the EFL Cup, but they also only managed a late draw with Portsmouth on the first day of play.

That’s not the best start for a team that is expected to win the league.

Additionally, on August 17, they have a difficult matchup with West Brom coming up.

Although it would always be difficult to recover from Crysencio Summerville and Archie Gray’s departures, Farke believes that the most crucial thing to do is to avoid making rash purchases.

For the Rangers in 19 league games last season, Matondo recorded three assists and five goals (FBref). Even though those are some encouraging numbers, the 23-year-old hasn’t exactly made waves in the world.

Farke can change him into a dynamic attacking lineup, but it will require time, which he might not have at this moment.

Considered worse than Lawrence: Clement needs to mercilessly cut loose the 4/10 Rangers dud following their CL no-show

The Champions League group stages of this season will not feature Glasgow Rangers, as they were defeated 2-0 by Dynamo Kyiv on Tuesday night.

After a 1-1 draw in the first leg last week, the Ibrox giants, who had to play at Hampden Park, lost 3-1 on aggregate after giving up two goals in the 82nd and 83rd minutes of play.

Now, Philippe Clement’s team must try their luck in the Europa League before returning home to take on St. Johnstone in the League Cup this coming weekend.

After his team’s dismal performance in Europe, the Belgian manager must make some decisions. One player who has to be mercilessly dropped from the starting lineup is Ross McCausland.

The Tuesday struggles of Ross McCausland

With Jefte on the left, Tom Lawrence at number ten, and Cyriel Dessers leading the line, the Northern Ireland international was chosen to start for Rangers on the right flank.

Clement’s choice came as a surprise because the academy graduate had been ineffectual in the first leg as a starter, recording 0 goals and 0 assists, and had been benched for the Scottish Premiership victory over Motherwell.

Far worse than Lawrence, the 21-year-old forward failed to justify his spot on the squad. Derek McGregor of the Scottish Sun gave the Welshman a 5/10 player rating, praising his teasing ball into the box before the midfielder lost steam later in the match.

The fact that Clement left the former Derby County player in the game until the 85th minute suggests that, for the most part, he was satisfied with his performance.

Conversely, McCausland had a fruitless first half and was hauled off at halftime. The manager’s decision to substitute the winger at halftime implies that he too thought the performance was lacklustre. The aforementioned McGregor gave the winger a miserable match rating of 4/10.

Instead, Clement, the player, needs to unleash

Following his lack of performance in the Champions League, Clement will now have to mercilessly remove the Northern Irishman from the starting lineup. In his three appearances as a winger, including two starts, he has failed to score or provide an assist.

Vaclav Cerny, on loan from Wolfsburg, has the ability to have a bigger impact in the final third from a right wing position, so the former Monaco manager needs to get him back into the lineup.

The Czech international has had a great start to life in the Premiership this season, as the table above shows; the same cannot be said of McCausland.

It was unexpected to see the 26-year-old star left out of the starting lineup at Hampden Park after he produced a stunning assist for Dessers with an amazing inswinging cross in the first leg against Dynamo Kyiv.

After struggling and outperforming Lawrence on Tuesday night, McCausland ought to be cut from the squad to make room for Cerny.

Big match verdict: empty seats at Hampden indicate apathy on the part of Rangers fans, and things have just gotten much worse

The city did not experience the Ibrox atmosphere as the Light Blues were eliminated from the Champions League.

a sound barrier. When Dynamo Kyiv last visited Glasgow to play Rangers, that’s what they encountered. The Ibrox punters who were there probably still have it ringing in their ears almost forty years later.

The sound was overwhelming. And generally acknowledged as one of the best stadium atmospheres ever experienced, if not THE best. It’s unbeatable for devotees of a particular vintage. The triumph over RB Leipzig on the way to the Europa League Final two years ago will be cited by the younger generation. Or the legendary victory over Parma in 1999, when big Tony Vidmar had the crowd in stitches.

However, no. When asked about the loudest roar they have ever heard while watching Rangers, many people will cite Dynamo Kyiv on September 30, 1987. That night, there were astonishingly just 44,500 in the ground. The guests, however, were unable to hear themselves think. Neither could Graeme Souness or his team in a thrilling second-leg European Cup match.

The audience contributed in that way. Against all the odds, the Rangers defeated the Dynamo team, winning 2-1 overall. Keep in mind, that team was full of USSR superstars. It was therefore hard to avoid drawing comparisons when they appeared in Glasgow’s south side last night. Here in the main stand stood Alexei Mickhailichenko, who had played for both clubs as well as Dynamo in the past.

But there’s no denying that things have changed. To begin with, the Rangers aren’t actually at Ibrox. Furthermore, the atmosphere of the recollections of ’87 was always going to be in stark contrast. Last night, Hampden was not even half full. Their brief, pre-season jaunt was bound to turn off some fans. Not to mention the customary expenses.

But what was really noticeable was how many seats were empty in the old Celtic end. Does it go beyond that? Is this fan base becoming more and more apathetic? Who can blame them if there is, considering the Ibrox debacle, a lack of transfer funds, a glaringly unbalanced and untalented squad, and an overall lack of clarity regarding the club’s true direction?

And what about last night’s noise? It never came close to matching the volume of Kyiv’s previous visit here. The teams did not make the sound of an aeroplane taking off when they came out of the Hampden tunnel. The muted cheers of the fans were drowned out by Simply the Best. In contrast to 1987, the players were responsible for igniting the crowd rather than the other way around.

There was a quiet hush over Hampden after the opening song from the home end. The players could be heard yelling at one another. Barely a second passed thirty-seven years ago without a clatter of some kind.

Even now, when you see Mark Falco score the first goal by taking advantage of a mistake made by the Kyiv keeper, you’ll get a tingling sensation in the back of your neck. And the roof fell when Ally McCoist met a cross from Trevor Francis at the Copland Road end, tricking and confusing the goalie with his header. Very tingling in the spine.

One more recollection from that Dynamo match is Souness’s fly strategies prior to the ball being kicked. Recall how he told his ground crew to close in the lines and narrow the Ibrox pitch in an effort to neutralise Kyiv’s dangerous wingers?

The way the Rangers used that move to exhaust their opponents was quite effective. Strangely enough, last night the punters were clamouring for Vaclav Cerny, the Czech wide player, to provide them some width. However, the atmosphere was further deflated when Philippe Clement chose to start him on the bench. Gers’ doctors reportedly told the Belgian that there would be too great a risk.

Rangers’ Jefte rues a missed chance

If that’s the case, though, how come Cerny, who had been tearing Motherwell to pieces over the weekend, was fired after just 55 minutes? To the delight of the home support, he was eventually introduced at halftime.

And after Jefte’s absurdly harsh red card, they finally raised their voices and stood up in 53 minutes, expressing their sheer frustration and defiance. They stood up once more after James Tavernier won a corner, and Clement motioned for them to stand up with his arms.

They were definitely needed by their team. However, they were unable to stop Dynamo from scoring twice in the latter stages of the game to send Rangers reeling. The farewell had a significant effect. However, in the clear, their hopes of qualifying for the Champions League have been dashed before the play-off phase.

The mood was set in 1987 when Souness and his team believed they could win the European Cup heading into their match against Kyiv. It was an optimistic support for the Rangers. Now? Simply put, that is untrue. Actually, it’s the exact opposite. The events of this summer at Ibrox have only added to the pessimism of the punters. And the outcome from last night made it much worse.