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Jack Butland raises the finger in a barely disguised Rangers complaint
Rangers had a lesson in high level finishing against Lyon in the Europa League.
The two teams’ differences in calmness during the last ball and finish were stunning.
Rangers did enough to put Lyon under strain, but the manager has come under criticism for his tactics. The Ibrox fans are becoming bored of a side they cannot trust.
Jack Butland is disappointed with the Rangers’ attitude against Lyon.
Philippe Clement may summon Jack Butland to his office for criticism of the Gers’ game strategy.
“They’re a pretty excellent squad with exceptional individual talent.
“The problem is that we have given them too many chances to display this.
“We needed a different approach.”
“We didn’t foul enough at the right times to stop them from getting into their stride.
“We offered them simple opportunity to demonstrate their significant unique skill.
“It seems like it appears worse than it is. We let it be a bit too end-to-end.
“At home, we aim to put pressure on. We put them under pressure early on.
“They couldn’t play out of the back.
“We managed to stress them out.
“But we couldn’t keep it up, and we squandered chances.
“It starts to get away from you.”
“You’d hate to say it, but I think there’s a different approach that we needed”
Rangers goalkeeper Jack Butland reacts to a disappointing 4-1 loss against Lyon 🗣
🎙 @msmith850 pic.twitter.com/K5ch3dqEPb
— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) October 3, 2024
It was an odd game.
Rangers looked comfortable in control, routinely moving the ball into the final third.
There were certainly plenty of opportunities to be level at halftime.
Is Butland criticizing Clement’s tactics?
Butland’s statements may be construed in a variety of ways.
The 31-year-old might be referring about how Rangers prepared to face Lyon, but he could equally be talking about individual attitude and overcoming personal fights.
Steven Gerrard used to preach about earning the right to play, and too many Rangers players failed to win their one-on-one duels throughout the field.
This reasoning makes more sense considering Butland’s comments about making it too easy for Lyon to get into their stride.
The finest illustration was the contrast between James Tavernier and Neraysho Kasanwirjo.
When the captain was changed at the hour mark, he exited the field in a despondent mood, knowing that he had a horrible night at work.
Every assault down Tavernier’s side created issues since he gave up too much space.
Tavernier allows Alexandre Lacazette too much freedom to cut inside before giving up, leaving the center defenders vulnerable.
When Kasanwirjo came in, he quickly shut off Lyon’s left-hand side by marking his opponent tighter and being more aggressive.
Nothing difficult here; just application and determination.
Butland was discussing this kind of strategy.
Agonized Philippe Clement maintains that Lyon provided Rangers with a rigorous European learning experience in the art of clinical finishing
After the final siren, Lyon’s head coach Pierre Sage exchanges hands with Rangers manager Philippe Clement.
The Rangers manager was of the opinion that his team was exceedingly wasteful in front of goal, despite the fact that they created numerous opportunities during the 4-1 loss to Lyon.
On the second matchday of the Europa League, Rangers suffered a substantial 4-1 defeat at home to Lyon, according to Philippe Clement, who maintains that their lack of a merciless disposition in front of goal was the cause of their downfall.
Captain James Tavernier and on-loan Czech winger Vaclav Cerny missed gilt-edged first-half opportunities to put the Ibrox side in front. However, the French giants punished them ruthlessly, with Malick Fofana and ex-Arsenal frontman Alexandre Lacazette both scoring braces to ensure the Ligue 1 side cruised to victory.
Clement expressed satisfaction with the opportunities his players generated in the aftermath of the loss, but acknowledged that they were taught a lesson in clinical finishing after the Light Blues were decisively defeated in Govan.
He acknowledged following the match, “We do not reward ourselves with the scoreline, clearly.” We have the initial opportunities of the game, which are 100 percent, but we must eliminate them. It becomes an entirely different affair when the score is 1-0 or 2-0. Therefore, we fall behind by missing the ball in locations where it is impossible to lose it. Our defense is inadequate.
“We rebound to 1-1, but we concede due to ball losses in our own half. This is extremely disheartening.” Lyon is capable of absorbing and anticipating transitions. The team is comprised of numerous talented players who possess exceptional technical abilities. We endeavored to make a comeback in the second half.
“At the conclusion of the game, the scoreline is unambiguous, despite the fact that you have the same number of chances and the same numbers.” That is the distinction between quality and execution.
Clement acknowledged that the nature of the defeat is not particularly detrimental, as they still have eight games remaining as part of the new competition format. Nevertheless, the Belgian is resolute in his effort to accumulate additional points as quickly as feasible, as he is awaiting matches against Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur.
He further stated, “Yes, but we are also aware of the group’s reality, the quality of players, and the transfers.” We made every effort to secure the victory; however, when confronted with opponents of this caliber, it is imperative to capitalize on opportunities. “If you do not accept them, you are not deserving of any reward from the game.”
Rangers are in the process of negotiating multiple contracts and are expected to declare the signing of another after Sterling’s departure, according to a report
The Daily Record reports that the Rangers are in the process of negotiating contracts with numerous players and are expected to announce an extension for John Souttar in the immediate future.
On 1 October, the publication announced on their website that the Scotland international is the next in line to sign, following the club’s announcement of Dujon Sterling’s new contract earlier that day.
Sterling, a former Chelsea defender, has been granted an additional year and enhanced terms in recognition of his exceptional debut season at Ibrox. His contract will now conclude in 2028.
Recent seasons have seen Rangers lose a significant number of players to free transfers, and they are currently seeking to resolve this matter.
Rangers are expected to confirm the extension of John Souttar’s contract at Ibrox.
The majority of the senior players who have departed at the conclusion of their contracts in the past few years had already reached the end of their tenure at Ibrox. However, Philippe Clement has consistently emphasized the disadvantage of failing to secure fees for them on their departure.
The most obvious examples of players who could have been sold earlier for reasonable prices rather than allowing their form to deteriorate and depart for nothing are likely Ryan Kent and Alfredo Morelos.
Interim chairman John Gilligan has verified that Clement is driving more change behind the scenes in Glasgow, having been endorsed for the long-term despite poor results [Sky Sports Scotland, 24 September].
As long as the appropriate decisions are made regarding the recipients and the amount of assistance provided, this should constitute an improvement.
John Souttar is next in line to be signed to a new Rangers contract
However, the Gers will not benefit from the presence of undesirable players that they are unable to dispose of, given the challenges Clement faced in offloading players this summer to make space for new signings.
Todd Cantwell and Scott Wright were both sold for less than £1 million [4th Official, 31 August] when they were ultimately offloaded before the deadline [Sky Sports, 29 August].
Rabbi Matondo is rumored to be under a substantial contract, and the inability to sell Ianis Hagi this summer was attributed to the Romanian’s exorbitant salary [Hugh MacDonald, 5 September]. However, the dispute has been resolved, and the 25-year-old is now participating in first-team training [Rangers Review, 1 October].
Sterling secured a new contract last season; however, he will be required to enhance his performance this season following his struggles with form and games since the summer.
Despite the advent of FC Twente captain Robin Propper, who has yet to establish himself, Souttar has emerged as the premier center-back following the departure of Connor Goldson.
In recent years, the squad administration at Ibrox has been quite subpar due to the frequent turnover of managers and key executive positions, which has resulted in a lack of continuity. Therefore, it is logical to secure key assets for an extended period, provided that they remain key assets on the field during that time.
BBC Sportsound pundit was left in admiration of Ange-eclipsing Celtic and believes that Rangers are poised for a “healthy doing”
Celtic have garnered significant praise for their season-opening performance, and they demonstrated their ruthlessness by defeating St. Johnstone 6-0 on Saturday night.
There were five distinct competitors who contributed to the final score on the scoresheet. The goals tallied were indicative of the collective confidence and cohesiveness of the complete team.
Throughout the 90 minutes, the home defense was virtually torn apart by a series of devastating in-play combinations that were both aesthetically appealing and effective.
It is accurate that St Johnstone is currently experiencing difficulties. They did not precisely administer a rigorous examination.
However, the current level of enthusiasm surrounding Celtic is less indicative of the caliber of their opponents and more indicative of their operational approach.
After the demolition of St. Johnstone, Celtic receives glowing evaluations.
Even pundits who are not precisely Celtic supporters were captivated by the game, as the BBC Sportsound panel that covered it was unable to get enough.
For instance, the chorus was conducted by Hearts supporter Allan Preston, who expressed his admiration with the utmost enthusiasm.
He stated, “This is the most exceptional football team I have observed in Scotland in years.” Many, many years. I am unsure of the most recent instance in which I have observed an individual who is as fluent and as concise as that.
Preston was asked whether the current Celtic team is superior to the one that Ange Postecoglou assembled in Scotland. He responded, “I really believe so.” I believe that Brendan initially encountered a significant number of Ange’s players, who continued to desire to adhere to Ange’s playing style. That is not Brendan’s approach; they are two distinct approaches.
However, I observed the matches against Chelsea and Manchester City after having observed Celtic during the close season. Certainly, they are friendly rivals; however, the manner in which they manipulated the ball left me in awe and prompted me to contemplate whether they could replicate this skill in Scotland. They have, without a doubt, accomplished it.
Celtic is capable of decimating any Scottish club.
The fact that Celtic were playing St Johnstone was almost extraneous for Preston. He believes that any team, including Rangers, could have been the recipient of a 6-0 score on Saturday night.
He concluded, “St Johnstone, yeah, they’re on a downer; they aren’t playing well.” They are a club that is in a state of crisis, but Celtic have dismantled them. The number could have been ten. Celtic will apply this to nearly every opponent.
“I incorporate Rangers into that. If Celtic continue to perform as they have tonight, Rangers may be able to secure a robust victory when they ultimately meet.
It is not inaccurate, despite its lofty praise. The Bhoys have already defeated the Ibrox side 3-0 this season and are continuing to improve.
There is a great deal more to come, and it is truly thrilling that the team will now be able to prove themselves at the highest level against Dortmund on Tuesday night. I propose that we investigate the true position of Rodgers regarding this matter.
Celtic’s injury update is disclosed as Rangers’ pursuit of a player who is “wanted” addresses transfer speculation.
This weekend, Celtic and Rangers were both involved in Scottish Premiership matches.
Celtic’s emphatic performance resulted in a 6-0 victory at St Johnstone on Saturday afternoon. Two goals were tallied by Kyogo Furuhashi, and Paulo Bernardo, Callum McGregor, Daizen Maeda, and Adam Idah also scored.
The Hoops are the focus of the Rangers’ pursuit in the upcoming weeks and months. I have included the most recent updates on the pair below…
Cameron Carter-Vickers will be evaluated by Celtic prior to their Champions League away match against Borussia Dortmund. The center-back has been sidelined for the past two matches due to a foot injury.
Brendan Rodgers has stated in the most recent update regarding his condition, “I am uncertain.” I will be informed tomorrow. View his current location. And then we will proceed on Monday. In the event that he is unavailable, that is acceptable. Auston Trusty entered the premises. Tonight, I believed that he performed exceptionally well. You have observed his velocity and his strength. He is operating from the right side, but his game is well-balanced. Additionally, I believed that he performed exceptionally well. Therefore, in the event that Cameron is unavailable, we have an individual who can immediately assume his responsibilities.
In the meantime, Greg Taylor, the left-back, was substituted during the match against St Johnstone; however, there is optimism that he will recover without incident. This is the most recent information that his supervisor has disclosed: “Greg experienced a calf tightness during the initial 15 minutes.” Therefore, we remove him as a precautionary measure and replace him with Alex Valle. We anticipate that he will be unharmed.
Interest in the winger
According to a report by the Daily Record, Rangers expressed interest in Plymouth Argyle winger Morgan Whittaker during the summer, but no actual progress was made. The 23-year-old remained at Home Park beyond the deadline as a result of his substantial cost.
He addressed the topic of the Gers after his team’s recent 2-1 victory over Luton Town, telling the Western Morning News, “I have been in this situation before, so I know how to handle it and I found ways it worked for me. That’s just focusing on what I can do.” I believe that the distinction between my time at Swansea and this time is that I was aware that I would be playing here. In my opinion, it was a mutually beneficial arrangement, as I am thoroughly enjoying my time here and am actively engaged in gaming. Additionally, if I were to relocate, it would be to a higher level that I aspire to. I did not perceive it as an undesirable circumstance.
Rodgers’ post-match remarks are criticized by a pundit
Tam McManus, a former Hibernian forward, has criticized Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers for what he considers to be a lack of contrition in response to comments made by Rodgers following Celtic’s 6-0 victory over St Johnstone on Saturday.
Soccer Football – Champions League – Celtic v Slovan Bratislava – Celtic Park, Glasgow, Scotland, Britain – September 18, 2024 Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers reacts Action Images via Reuters/Jason Cairnduff
Rodgers addressed detractors who accused his team of playing sluggish and unproductive football during the post-match interviews held last season. Celtic’s impressive display at McDiarmid Park, which included a brace from Kyogo Furuhashi, as well as goals from Paulo Bernardo, Callum McGregor, Daizen Maeda, and Adam Idah, prompted this response.
Rodgers’ rebuttal to his detractors was deemed superfluous by McManus, as it undermined his own principles of humility.
He published a message on the social media platform X:
Fantastic performance and result. Looks a seriously strong Celtic squad but no need for the pop as at the time Celtic were not playing good football. Not scoring a goal v Kilmarnock & St Johnstone in back to back weeks proves that. Brendan goes on about staying humble. Well i’m… https://t.co/yhRmvhQg8F
— Tam McManus (@The_Tman10) September 28, 2024
Celtic’s excellent start to the season, which includes 20 goals scored and no conceded in their first six league matches, is a substantial departure from the criticisms of the previous year. The team is exhibiting a potentially more dynamic and effective style of play under Rodgers.
It could be argued that Celtic are employing Angeball in their attack, with a more organized counter press and a compact defensive unit.
Currently, the Hoops are experiencing success, as evidenced by their impressive goal difference of +20, which has been achieved in only six games. May it persist indefinitely.
An unforgettable Daizen Maeda moment
This has become so commonplace among Celtic fans that it may be considered an expectation. Nevertheless, we will never weary of Daizen Maeda’s pursuit of opposing players, even when the bhoys are 6-0 up with five minutes remaining.
The video of the Japanese star sprinting back to retrieve the ball after a sloppy pass in the final third has gone viral, marking another Daizen moment.
The winger could have been excused for allowing this one to fall, but in typical Daizen fashion, he witnesses Celtic loose the ball and sprints the length of the field to retrieve it.
Winning 6-0. 86 minutes. Daizen Maeda… pic.twitter.com/rvRlIOs28n
— Stewart Ross (@StewartRoss89) September 29, 2024
Maeda and Celtic will provide additional information in the future.
Celtic were exceptional throughout their performance in Perth. The boys truly demonstrated their capabilities. Nevertheless, you continue to believe that this group has more to offer and has not yet reached its peak.
Maeda was initially recruited by Ange Postecoglou; however, Brendan Rogers has since elevated him to greater heights. Maeda is an exceptional Celtic athlete due to his exceptional work ethic and integrity, both on and off the field.
The next challenge for the Hoops is a harrowing journey to Dortmund. We can hope for a positive outcome in Germany, but it will be a difficult evening
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