One Philippe Clement issue is resolved by the concealed John Gilligan benefit for Rangers as the new chairman

The Light Blues’ manager had been compelled to serve as the club’s spokesperson in recent weeks as a result of a catastrophic summer off the field at Ibrox.

Andy Newport, reporting from Malmo, reports that Philippe Clement believes he is currently busier than ever as he attempts to comprehend the multitude of Europa League opponents that Rangers has to contend with.

However, he is profoundly relieved that he is no longer responsible for elucidating the behind-the-scenes antics, as John Gilligan is now in charge of the operation at Ibrox.In recent weeks, Clement has been compelled to serve as the club’s spokesperson due to a series of mishaps that have occurred during the summer.

The large Belgian was dispatched to address the concerns of bewildered supporters, which included a stuttering transfer window, the Copland stand mishap, and even encounters with fans. However, the new interim chairman, Gilligan, has pledged to assume the responsibility and relieve his employer of it. This week, he will conduct a press conference that is partially intended to refute Dave King’s assertion that the Gers are a club in crisis.

That has been a significant relief to Clement, who has a significant amount of responsibility tonight to ensure that the Rangers end their dismal Malmo record, which currently stands at four games played and no wins. He stated, “It’s an interesting thing now as a staff with this new formula in the Europa League,” prior to Gers’ inaugural match in the redesigned competition, which will feature eight distinct teams from now until January.

“Previously, there was a group stage consisting of four teams. Consequently, you were assigned three opponents, which necessitated three analyses. Subsequently, you were able to analyze your own game in order to provide feedback to the players for the subsequent match.” Currently, it will be conducted eight times, each time with a completely distinct team. Therefore, it necessitates significantly more effort; however, it is also more difficult, and I believe it is engaging for all parties.

“Certainly, as a manager, you are inclined to discuss football and the activities you are engaged in.” And we have engaged in an excessive number of discussions regarding non-football matters in the past few months, during which I failed to exert any influence or voice. So I am optimistic that we can also put an end to this attitude, and that in the future, we will not need to discuss these matters. We should instead concentrate on football, as it is the most significant aspect of the club.

In each of their four group-stage appearances, including their renowned journey to the 2022 final, Gers have persevered to advance to the Europa League knockout phases. Last year, Clement was in command when they returned to Seville to defeat Real Betis and advance to the last 16, where they were narrowly defeated by Portuguese powers Benfica.

Before his initial assessment of the new format, Clement, whose team is also scheduled to face Lyon, Steaua Bucharest, Olympiakos, Nice, Spurs, Man United, and Union Saint-Gilloise, expressed his excitement: “It will be intriguing to observe the new format in action.” I believe that we did not receive any gifts as a result of the draw; this is particularly evident when compared to other groups.

“We have a very difficult group to qualify from, and that’s also a little bit peculiar. The teams in our group play against other teams than the ones we are playing against, so it’s a little bit of a peculiar situation.” Nevertheless, we will concentrate on our own performance, game by game, and strive to achieve the three objectives in full. Subsequently, we will evaluate the impact of this format.

I believe that we were extremely close to defeating Benfica, and we had a successful Europa League season last year due to the qualities we possessed as a group. When comparing the qualities of Benfica, we were extremely near. We achieved the highest ranking in our Europa League division, so it is impossible to surpass that.

“It will be a challenge to improve, but we are ambitious and always strive to surpass our previous performance.” We strive to improve each month, and this is the most thrilling aspect of the endeavor at present. We have a new squad, and a number of new young players are moving in. Some of them are experiencing European football for the first time, while others, such as Connor Barron, who is still young, had a taste of it last season.

“Nevertheless, he also realized the challenges we faced in integrating it with domestic football and achieving three points on a daily basis.” It is intriguing to observe the rapidity with which they adjust to this, to the requirement to perform every three days, to remain alert and to participate in significant activities. This marks the commencement of that forthcoming period.

Clement’s ambitions to recruit additional new players may be contingent upon his ability to advance in the competition, as he has already recruited nine individuals this summer. However, he was pleased to hear Gilligan affirm this week that there will be sufficient funds to spend in January.

“It is crucial and indispensable,” he declared. “The summer was challenging; we discussed it; perhaps the club members will also discuss it in the future, within the next few months.”

Rangers interim chairman John Gilligan

“Of course, as a manager, you aspire to secure additional funding to carry out the club’s objectives. However, the resources that were available are allowing everyone to recognize that numerous positive developments have been achieved.” It is now intriguing to work with and concentrate on that.

“And of course, we must also consider our current activities in anticipation of January and our plans for the upcoming summer.” We are also preoccupied with that, but it is our responsibility, as well as recruitment. Also, it is crucial to have the necessary funds to implement the appropriate measures for the club.

Arsenal versus Leicester City Prediction, EPL Soccer Pick, September 28, 2024 Odds and Tips

Rangers updated the roster at the Ibrox this summer, adding no less than eleven new players under Philippe Clement.

With 16 players leaving as well, the Belgian manager has given a lot of young players significant opportunity and revitalized a first team that was in decline.

The scene is set for other recent signings like Nedim Bajrami and Hamza Igamane to make their Ibrox imprint as players like Jefte and Connor Barron make an impression.

But two of the 11 new players have yet to play a minute for the Rangers after the 3-0 Premier Sports Cup victory against Dundee.

Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images

Rangers sign two, but they must wait for their Ibrox debuts.

Neraysho Kasanwirjo, a Dutch defender, made his Rangers debut late in the match against Dundee, replacing James Tavernier.

The under-fire Ibrox captain opened his season account with a second-half penalty kick, earning a wave of applause from the Gers supporters.

The Rangers skipper will have competition from Kasanwirjo, who is on loan from Feyenoord, as supporters of the Dutch U21 defender are excited to see what he can offer to the Ibrox.

Despite the fact that Neraysho Kasanwirjo made his Rangers debut against the Dee, two summer additions have yet to make a game appearance for the team.

Liam Kelly, a former goalkeeper in the Rangers academy, was a young player for the club, however he never played at Ibrox.

The goalkeeper hasn’t been able to remove Jack Butland yet, despite the Gers’ best player putting on a fantastic display in the Premier Sports Cup triumph.

Since coming to Ibrox, new Rangers addition Clint Nsiala, who joined the squad from AC Milan in the summer, has also not made an appearance in a competitive first team.

Similar to Hamza Igamane, Philippe Clement has expressed expectations for Nsiala’s future at Rangers that are high.

When may Clinton Nsiala and Liam Kelly join the Rangers?

Liam Kelly may have dreamed of joining Rangers for their Premier Sports Cup run as a rookie.

Before facing Dundee in the quarterfinal on their return to Ibrox, Rangers faced St Johnstone in the tournament’s fourth round.

Liam Kelly had to wait to play for Rangers; depending on the opponent, Kelly’s debut was likely scheduled for the club’s Scottish Cup run. Jack Butland participated in both games.

A bit more complicated is the scenario involving Clinton Nsiala, as Rangers defender Philippe Clement feels the player is very much a Glasgow prospect in the future.

Nsiala, who often plays for the Rangers B squad, has a difficult time making an impression at Ibrox since the club’s pecking order places John Souttar, Robin Pröpper, Leon Balogun, and currently Neraysho Kasanwirjo ahead of the center defender.

However, we believe Clinton Nsiala will have more time to make an impression before the campaign ends since it will be a lengthy season.

Rangers star tells supporters that his teammate performing in training has “something special”

Although Rangers striker Cyriel Dessers may have scored a lethal double at Dundee, it still might not be sufficient to quiet the critics.

Since joining to Rangers last summer, the 29-year-old Nigerian international has blown hot and cold in Scotland; nevertheless, he was the man of the moment on the club’s return to Ibrox.

In Glasgow’s southside, Cyriel Dessers had a dominant display scoring two goals and earning a James Tavernier penalty in the 3-0 triumph against the Dee.

Dessers nevertheless had to address questions about the increasing noises surrounding one of his Ibrox colleagues, even if the striker netted his sixth and seventh goals of a fruitful season to far.

Cyriel Dessers speaks about “special” Hamza Igamane.

Arriving at the collision with Dundee at Ibrox, demands for Hamza Igamane to be given the nod in the “number nine” slot became louder.

Despite all of Cyriel Dessers’s success this season, there is still uncertainty regarding the hitman in the most important games and unless he begins consistently scoring goals in close encounters either in Europe or against Celtic.

Hamza Igamane made a cameo for Dundee United, and Rangers supporters wanted more of the young Moroccan.

Following the game, Cyriel Dessers was questioned about the growing competitiveness at Ibrox and, with usual grace, praised Igamane’s promise.

Dessers is wanting the 21-year-old attacker to help this season as he feels he has “something special”.

🔵 @RangersFC‘s Cyriel Dessers reacts after his goals helped secure a Semi-Final spot

“It was good to be back here at Ibrox” 🗣️#PremierSportsCup pic.twitter.com/uSLT1mXWBv

— Premier Sports (@PremSportsTV) September 21, 2024

Dessers told Premier Sports, “You obviously want to be pushed in the games and in training.”

“You have to perform not only with Danilo and Hamza (Igamane) but also to keep the jersey as you say.

“He has something unique; you can also notice this when he arrives today.

“He’s a very good player and I am sure he will assist us this season and I hope he will assist us a lot.”

All of the Rangers attackers will have to help.

Neither in his post-match news conference nor did Cyriel Dessers avoid inquiries regarding Hamza Igamane.

Calls from supporters online to see Hamza Igamane put into the first squad led the huge striker to address questions about competitiveness at Rangers.

The great strike brushed off the line of inquiry and claims he is resolved to see Hamza Igamane and Danilo be successes at Ibrox in classic Cyriel Dessers manner.

“I am delighted with (the competition) actually,” remarked Dessers.

“I believe that there will always be rivalry at a large club like Rangers, which is excellent.

“We have 65 games in a season; most likely, I will not play 65 games 90 minutes.

“Hamza (Igamane) and Danilo are therefore quite welcome; I’m sure we will need them and they will be ready right away.”

Hamza is visible; he has something. I also see it in the training when he arrives; he has something.

“And I am delighted with it; he is supporting me; we are assisting one another.

“You want to perform well in the two cups, in the league, in Europe, so you cannot do it alone as a striker; as I say in a lengthy season that you have at Rangers.

“We shall need all of our strikers this season and hopefully we can score a lot of goals, all of us.”

Since joining Rangers last summer, Cyriel Dessers currently has 29 goals and 11 assists in 63 games.

What Rangers CEO might anticipate in salary as club’s search for new CEO continues

The Light Blues need to replace James Bisgrove, who has gone for Saudi.

Rangers’ new chief executive might earn over £500,000 per year, according to reports.

The Ibrox club is now seeking a new CEO to replace James Bisgrove, who departed in May for Saudi Arabia. Their problems worsened last week when chairman John Bennett announced his resignation due to illness, leaving the club without two important executives, with John Gilligan filling in on an interim basis.

The Rangers Review reports that as much as £500k might be given to whichever applicant is finally selected as the ideal person for the post. They recounted how a “insider” set out the qualities required for a top-level chief executive.

“The Rangers CEO must be politically astute and able to exert influence, but they do not need to be the smartest guy in every room they enter,” according to Chris Jack’s article. “As one insider told the Rangers Review, a good chief executive would hire individuals who are better at their professions than they are, and the CEO must create a squad in the same way that a manager would.

“The ability to perform under a variety of pressures – from financial to football, from press to punters – is unquestionable, and the financial acumen of a candidate who might earn £500,000 should not be called into question.

“The network of contacts and a track record in the game will help aspiring applicants stand out.”

“Excellent”—Hartson concurs wholeheartedly with King’s remarks regarding the Rangers

John Hartson has endorsed Dave King in his assertion that there is a significant disparity between Rangers and Celtic.

After John Bennett resigned as Rangers chairman and pledged to assist in rebuilding the team over the next two years in order to close the gap to Celtic, King has entered the race for a spectacular return to Ibrox [talkSPORT].

King disagreed with Graeme Souness’s earlier statement that the gap between the Old Firm rivals is not as great as many would think, even though doubts have since been voiced about it.

Additionally, former Celtic striker Hartson stated on the Go Radio Football Show [September 17]: “I think [King] is bang on.”

“Graeme Souness has my respect for what he accomplished in the game. However, I believe that they are far away from each other on the field.

“You’ve read the details of Celtic’s finances, including their assets and liabilities. According to Brendan, their finance team produced more revenue than they spent, which is impressive.

“I believe that many people would be envious of how Celtic conducts business. How they sign players for pitiful sums of money or through the system—take a look at Kieran Tierney, who signed for £500k through the academy, Matt O’Riley, and Moussa Dembele. Rangers must adapt.

“It is evident that they are not doing everything correctly at this time, so they need to examine it from top to bottom.”

Rangers and Celtic are very far apart.

Before the international break, the teams faced off in an Old Firm match that pitted men against boys. Celtic won handily, 3-0, at Parkhead.

James Tavernier, arguably the most talented player on the current Rangers team, took the brunt of the abuse following the loss, demonstrating the stark difference in class between the two teams [BBC Sportscene].

Although it appears the club is reluctant to bring back the former chairman, King managed the Light Blues’ last Scottish Premiership title win under Steven Gerrard. His track record of supervising success at Ibrox speaks for itself.

But there appears to be one very evident problem with his two-year plan: the South African hasn’t said anything more about how he intends to fulfill his goals while maintaining the Gers’ financial stability [Michael Gannon].

Dave King could return as Rangers chairman to succeed John Bennett

While making promises to bring back the Rangers’ heyday is admirable, it is meaningless without a strategy in place, which makes his bid even more vulnerable.

If King’s claims about his obsession with the Hoops—Keith Jackson—turn out to be accurate, it may cause him to face more financial difficulties in the future as he pursues short-term success in the Scottish Premiership.

No matter how long it takes for Rangers to become competitive again, the club needs a chairman who is long-term oriented.

Chris Sutton admits Rangers are a ‘problem’ for Philippe Clement in the new title race

Chris Sutton believes Rangers’ midfield will pose a “problem” for Philippe Clement in this season’s title race with Celtic.

With a 1-0 win over Dundee United on Sunday (15 September), the Light Blues closed the gap on their Old Firm rivals to five points. Tom Lawrence scored in the first half at Tannadice.

Despite admitting that the performance was one of the Gers’ best this season, Sky Sports pundit Sutton believes the Light Blues will not have enough to beat Brendan Rodgers’ side to the title this season.

On Sky Sports Football on Sunday (September 15, 14:22), he stated, “Do I see their midfield trio controlling games like Celtic do?”

“No, I don’t, and I think that’s a problem, but I believe we’ll see gradual improvements. That is natural, and that is what Philippe Clement is counting on.

“They’ve had a rocky start to the season, and today, whatever anyone says, it was all about the outcome because if Rangers hadn’t won this game, I believe they would have returned to Ibrox, and there might have been fans waiting to express their displeasure.

“It was about three points, building and about small steps so fair play to him today.”

Will Rangers beat Celtic for the Premiership title?

While Sunday’s victory was a step in the right direction for Clement and his team, there is still much work to be done at Ibrox, both on and off the pitch, to close the gap on the Hoops in the title race.

Until the Gers find a way to beat Celtic at Parkhead or Ibrox, they will struggle to beat Rodgers’ side to the title because they are giving their Glasgow rivals an advantage whenever they play.

Clement’s recruitment team has added Mohamed Diomande and Connor Barron to the midfield, but the Light Blues still lack a strong presence.

Hopefully, both players will be able to continue their development throughout the season. As Sutton suggests, this team is expanding week after week.

They may not be finished yet, but the signs indicate that things are moving in the right direction.

After their “Ridiculous” strategy revealed, Keown advises Rangers to blow Dundee Utd away

Gary Keown says that rangers should easily blow Dundee United away at Tannadice on Sunday, September 15.

Keown, writing for the Daily Mail (14 September), attacked the Dundee boardroom for their “ridiculous” scheme to charge fans £30 for a virtual piece of the Tannadice turf ahead of the game.

According to reports, American owner Mark Ogren runs the club aberrally; this is something Philippe Clement and his team should quickly benefit from.

Keown said: “United have started the season well; nevertheless, they have only recently returned to the Premiership with a new-look team and remain a club that has been run scandalously badly under their American owner Mark Ogren.

Whatever that may be, yesterday they were attracting justifiable opprobrium for advertising some ridiculous plan to charge their own punters £30 to own “a virtual piece of the Tannadice turf” and get an e-certificate to prove it.

“Good God”. Once dreaded throughout Europe, an institution reduced to this? Rangers should blow them far away.

Rangers to demolish Dundee United away in Scottish Premiership?

Although the Gers seem to have Keown’s complete support to execute a good triumph at Tannadice, it is interesting to note that Dundee United ranks higher than them in the Premiership after four games.

Strong start to the campaign sees the Tangerines undefeated four games in, winning and drawing two apiece to give Jim Goodwin’s third-placed side eight points, one clear of the Light Blues in fourth.

Philippe Clement’s Rangers side have to get back to winning ways against Dundee United at Tannadice

The stakes are therefore great when Clement’s side pitches at Tannadice, with no chance for error should the Belgian wish to evade more criticism off the back of his team losing 3-0 last time out.

Clement is yet to occupy the Tannadice dugout as Dundee United was playing in the Scottish Championship last season; the hosts will be looking to provide his side a challenging afternoon.

Keown’s forecast that the Gers wipe the floor with the hosts will be far simpler said than done, and should the Bears fail to win once more, the pressure could really intensify.

Rangers legend Ally McCoist seen with well-known friends at a trendy Glasgow restaurant

Recently dining at Caprese-Don Costanzo on Woodside Crescent in the West End, the former Gers hero was seen with several well-known personalities including Two Doors Down star Jonathan Watson.

Rangers icon Ally McCoist has been seen at a well-known Glasgow restaurant accompanied by some well-known friends.

Recently dining at Caprese-Don Costanzo on Woodside Crescent in the West End, the 61-year-old former Gers legend.

From 1983 until 1998, McCoist was a player for Glasgow; he then returned to the team as manager from 2011 to 2014.

Along with friends including former Ibrox assistant manager Archie Knox, comedian Andy Cameron, sports commentator Chick Young, ex-Gers midfielder Ian Durrant, he was seen at the family-run Italian restaurant.

The restaurant posted on social media: “Was great to see the guys back in again last week”.

Diners and Rangers supporters responded rapidly.

“What a great fun table that would have,” one remarked.

“My all time favourite Gers player… getting a hug fae Chick Young” also added.

BBC Pundit names Rangers star player he thinks wants to leave, and agent dark arts are brought up

Rory Loy has asked the agents who work for James Tavernier about the rumours that won’t go away about his future with the Rangers.

Philippe Clement is said to have put the 32-year-old on the cutting block this summer, and his future is still uncertain as the Turkish transfer window closes.

On September 11, Loy said on the Scottish Football Podcast that he thinks Tavernier wants to leave Rangers. The BBC pundit said that the constant rumours were caused by Tavernier’s entourage.

He said, “In this day and age, he’s still linked with a move away.” For me, that sounds like it’s coming from his camp, or from his agent trying to get people interested, and some of those people may not even be interested.

“These days, agents are good at that, but he seems like he wants to move on from everything.”

James Tavernier is a bad influence on the Rangers.

Although Loy went a little too far when he said that Tavernier was a bad influence on the Rangers team, there is no doubt that he needs to do well this season.

There was a lot of bad press about the right back’s play in the 3-0 loss to Celtic [BBC Sportscene]. It was his fault that Daizen Maeda scored the first goal, and he wasn’t the leader his team needed at Parkhead.

However, all the bad talk needs to stop now that Tavernier is said to have chosen to stay in Glasgow (HITC, September 12).

After that, the Gers can focus on getting their Scottish Premiership season back on track and doing well in the Europa League.

To quote Loy, “Dujon Sterling can feel hard done by following the news,” but when it comes to Tavernier, there will always be rumours about a move.

There are a lot of fans who agree with him that he might be leaving for good in January.

Rangers captain James Tavernier divides opinion [Credit: Imago]

It’s not easy for the Light Blues to find good depth across the pitch. At this point in their rebuilding process, having the young and talented Dujon Sterling play right back alongside the more experienced Tavernier is the best the club can hope for.

All the 24-year-old needs to do is impress Clement with his play when he’s needed, and it will be much easier to decide what to do with Tavernier’s future if Clement is interested.

View: This evening’s Lawrence Shankland transfer answers are guaranteed for Rangers supporters

On Tuesday night, when Philippe Clement speaks to a group of Rangers supporters at Edmiston House, he will probably be questioned about Lawrence Shankland.

The prolific Hearts forward, who has scored 59 goals in the last two seasons, including appearances for Scotland at Euro 2024, has long been linked to a move to Ibrox.

Clement has never formally stated if he was ever genuinely interested in acquiring Shankland, who has been wanted by some Gers supporters who don’t think Cyriel Dessers is a good enough custodian despite Shankland scoring 22 goals the previous season and five in six this year.

With the Belgian’s campaign off to a slow start, the Tuesday event comes at a bad time for him. The Daily Record [10 September] outlined the event’s premise, saying Shankland “could make all the difference when it comes to finishing first or second”.

Clement might have a difficult evening because supporters are desperate for answers before the season completely abandons their team.

Lawrence Shankland will be questioned by the Rangers boss.

Shankland was the obvious choice from the outside for Rangers supporters who are still not persuaded by Dessers and the goal-scoring abilities of his teammates.

The majority of strikers who are playing at a high level for a Scottish club that is not affiliated with the Old Firm eventually end up on one side of Glasgow, or in the Premier League or a major European division.

With his goals virtually bringing European football to Tynecastle this year, Shankland’s value to Hearts is immeasurable. At 29, he seems to be the best candidate for a cherry-pick at Ibrox.

The question of whether Clement believes Shankland fits his style of play is one that only he and Nils Koppen truly understand; the simple truth is that there is no possible way that he could not score a hatful with the opportunities the Gers create – see Dessers’ primary criticism.

Rangers target Lawrence Shankland scored 31 goals in all competitions for Hearts last season

Among a slew of summer arrivals, Hamza Igamane was the only striker signed for a seven-figure fee. However, the young Moroccan has only played 11 minutes of football in blue, leaving supporters perplexed about how long it would take to bring him up to speed.

Shankland is ready-made and prepared for the league’s demands; the only doubt is whether he could withstand the mental strain at Ibrox, where Clement will soon face yet another test during Tuesday’s Q&A.

‘Different Class’ – Pundit astounded by Rangers’ signing as club left ‘Upset’ in transfer conflict

Derek Ferguson argues why Aberdeen has been unhappy about losing Connor Barron based on his performances since joining Rangers.

After his contract at Pittodrie expired, the young midfielder moved to Ibrox in the summer and made a great impression as the only instant new starter under Philippe Clement.

The Dons, however, have turned down the £ 525,000 compensation offer from the Light Blues, so guiding the club towards a tribunal [Scottish Sun, 25 June].

Ferguson is happy with the start of life of the 21-year-old Gers player and thinks the Scot’s performance explains why Aberdeen is not eager to cooperate.

Speaking only to Ibrox News, he said: “What you can see now is why Aberdeen is a wee bit upset. He’s come to Rangers and he’s played out of his skin, he’s been different class.”

“probably given his performance, he’s surprised rather a lot of the Rangers support.” Although we have a decent player on the door, I still believe that £500,000 was a reasonable price.

“But I can also see the other side, why Aberdeen are a wee bit annoyed? Barron has a decent player.”

Philippe Clement turns to Connor Barron at Rangers.

Clement battled to offload costly peripheral options bring in the players he wanted, and the Light Blues transfer window proved to be a challenge.

Barron has not been perfect in his early Belgian performances; but, in a stuttering side he has been one of the bright points thus far.

Rangers have offered more than the half-million Aberdeen would have been due if the young man had left Scotland [The Rangers Review, 20 June]. It is finally their fault for not extending his contract while they could.

The relationship between the two sides [Ryan Jack, 9 August] may be the reason they are regretting their lack of action; the backlash over the move could be extra due. However, that ship has sailed and dragging out the compensation issue is a needless diversion all around.

The one thing Philippe Clement needs, from Rangers supporters, is that his reliable ally says “he’s done it everywhere he’s gone”

Johan van Rumst gave the Belgian an insider’s perspective on why the fan should stick with him.

Johan van Rumst assisted Philippe Clement, the Belgian engineer who built the machine that won the trophy, for five years.

When combined, they ignited the spark that led to three straight league titles for Club Brugge and then Genk. He accompanied the large Belgian as their model of success propelled Motor Monaco into the Champions League.The 46-year-old coach was only prevented from moving to Glasgow due to family matters, where he immediately went to work restoring Rangers’ disgraced lineup.

Van Rumst, though, has taken care to monitor his former partner’s advancement in Scotland. Initially, it seemed like Clement had everything lined up perfectly at Ibrox. However, just when it seemed like Brendan Rodgers’ turbocharged Celtic team was about to take off, a string of injuries, financial limitations, and on-field gaffes have conspired to throw a wrench in the works.

Fans are starting to complain about a style of play that is getting harder and harder to distinguish, and Clement is under pressure after failing to stop the Parkhead juggernaut with yet another derby demolition last week. Van Rumst, however, is confident that Clement can restart the Light Blues’ engine after witnessing his prior sides being relentlessly drilled until they functioned like a machine.

The former No. 2 for the Ibrox boss suggests that all you need is time. I collaborated with Philippe for six years, he said to Record Sport. During that time, we experienced many positive moments along with some challenging ones. All of it was dependent on diligence. In Genk and Brugge, that’s how we always did things. Our system was trained for countless hours, turning it into a machine.

“It was fantastic in Gent. We emerged victorious. Two more victories in Brugge. We also used the 4-3-3 in Monaco. Last season, I watched the Rangers, and Philippe relied heavily on John Lundstram.

“He was always the low midfield player who won the ball away from the centre backs so the full backs could press forward.” But since he left, perhaps Philippe is searching once more for a midfield player of that calibre.

“This season, I’ve watched Connor Barron fall short, but he never goes as deep to make a back three as Lundstram did. Philippe loves to play with depth with his wingers, which is the main reason we always try to make three at the back.

“I recall Abdallah Sima running in behind the defence last season on the left side. Philippe was thrilled, as we had experienced something similar at Brugge with Krepin Diatta.

“He prefers to have a winger who enters the game from behind and one who advances towards the ball. However, none of these patterns can be learnt in a single day. This season, the Rangers are a new team, and it takes time to get used to these moves.

“To be fair, Waasland-Beveren is only half the calibre of Rangers, but we still managed to pull it off.” Though we used straightforward patterns there, Philippe can undoubtedly do it in Glasgow as well. All he needs is time.

“I am aware of Philippe’s preferred style of play. It’s full backs high, wingers in, strikers pressing, and it’s attacking, dominating, creating chances. He can instill that in his players, I’m sure of it.

“Well, it’s normal that the Rangers fans are a little bit angry right now. However, you should give him more time because he has accomplished all of this previously and has done so everywhere he has gone.

Philippe Clement and Brendan Rodgers on touchline

Some will argue that Clement needs money, not weeks and months. Van Rumst believes his old friend, who acknowledges that his commitment to the game cost him his first marriage, will make up for it by devoting even more hours to tweaking his team, though billionaire bluenoses are hard to come by.

“Philippe’s a football addict,” he declared.His thoughts are constantly focused on how to make his team better. That’s how he was in Genk and even more so in Brugge.

We weren’t with our families when we were in Monaco. That meant he had even more time to focus on football. I’m not sure how he’s managing that in Glasgow, but perhaps the more you work, the more things that are universal go unnoticed. Perhaps he should back off a bit.

“I believe he has realised the importance of having a broader perspective on the situation. After that Celtics defeat, Philippe has had two incredibly difficult weeks. In an effort to shift his mindset, he will wish that the next game is played tomorrow.

“The Celtic loss has put him under a little bit of pressure.” Now, Philippe will examine the game and identify his mistakes. He’s not the type to believe that everything is the fault of others and that he is not at fault. He is harsh with himself.

There’s growing speculation that Clement’s job may be in jeopardy if he lets his disorganised Rangers fall any farther behind Celtic. That doesn’t seem likely considering that the Ibrox board only handed him a new four-year contract a month ago.

Even though van Rumst acknowledges that the pressure is mounting, he maintains that Clement has dealt with similar situations before—he was fired by Monaco after just 18 months there. Indeed, he said, “there was a lot of pressure in Monaco.” However, we also experienced it in Brugge the previous season when we won the playoffs.

However, Philippe never loses composure in those situations. He tries to instill confidence in the players and is very reasonable. Although there was a lot of pressure in Monaco from the start, we were able to qualify for the Champions League in the first year and perform admirably in the second.

We have only crashed in the last five games. When results are poor, it naturally kills a manager a little bit. Philippe, though, will not act foolishly. You don’t have to make all the changes in a trying time, and I believe Philippe will realise that at Rangers.

Doctor: Rangers player won’t require surgery after being sidelined for weeks due to a Grade 2 injury

Dr Rajpal Brar reports that Rangers attacker Rabbi Matondo is sidelined with a Grade 2 hamstring injury.

The injury expert says he won’t require surgery, despite The Daily Record reporting on September 3rd that he could be out for weeks.

On September 1, the 23-year-old sustained an injury during Celtic’s 3-0 loss.

Physical therapist and sports scientist Brar spoke exclusively with Ibrox News about his circumstances. He said:

“He appeared to be hurt during the Celtics game and was unable to continue.”

“It sounds like a Grade 2 out of 4 hamstring injury, which will require several weeks of rest.

“He wouldn’t be a consideration for returning shortly after the break so he won’t need anything additional if surgery was needed or being considered.”

For Rangers, Rabbi Matondo had a strong start to the season.

The Welshman proved his value to the team at Ibrox even though he was linked to leaving over the summer.

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The 23-year-old scored two goals and assisted on another two in the crushing of Ross County prior to the match at Parkhead.

Rabbi Matondo could leave Rangers

He can have a game-changing effect for the Gers in the last third, so they’ll be hoping he’s not out for too long.

Rangers supporters are urged to take a “extremely difficult” step by Michael Stewart as Celtic reveal a “massive” problem

Above all, Rangers’ lack of leadership is a “massive” problem for Philippe Clement, according to Michael Stewart.

On September 2, the former Hearts and Hibs midfielder stated to the Scottish Football Social Club that more players willing to “roll their sleeves up and graft” would help counteract the Gers’ team’s lack of quality, which he said is “engulfing the club” in the absence of struggle.

In the first Old Firm derby of the season, Celtic destroyed the Light Blues 3-0 at Parkhead. Stewart has also warned fans that unless they find a way to give Clement more time, the team will be forced to revert to its annual cycle of hiring and firing.

“I think most Rangers-minded folk realise they are pretty far off from Celtic,” Stewart (8 minutes and 10 seconds) said. It’s the lack of leadership, not just the quality. That is enormous.

“Because it feels like everything is engulfing the club right now in terms of negativity and struggle, but if you have some real leaders in there that can roll their sleeves up and graft, you can start to bridge a gap to a certain extent.”

While it’s all well and good that supporters are claiming to understand that the team is far from Celtic, they also need to give it some time and act accordingly.

“I understand that’s very challenging and that’s probably pie in the sky stuff, but if they don’t, it’s just rinse and repeat every year.”

Extension of Philippe Clement’s Rangers contract

It appears that John Bennett and the Ibrox hierarchy plan to ride out this season’s storm in the hopes that Clement will eventually develop.

During the chaos of the preseason and transfer window, they surprised him with a contract extension, and it has apparently long been decided to fire him due to the dismal start to the season [The Herald, 27 July].

It is not surprising that following a crushing loss to the Old Firm, the pressure on them to modify that position has already increased significantly.

The board doesn’t seem to want to follow the same course after noticing the harm done by the firings of Michael Beale and Giovanni van Bronckhorst over the previous two years.

However, if Clement could demonstrate some growth this term instead of what is beginning to appear to be a regression to the mean, their cause would be greatly aided.

After joining last season, the Belgian seemed very much like a man with a plan who should succeed if he had the right tools.

However, despite the frustrating window and the Ibrox building work fiasco, his situation hasn’t really improved. His record is getting worse, and support for the team is dwindling.

Bennett and company may not have an option but to persevere, but that doesn’t mean Clement will be exempt from criticism along the way.

Raskin responds as Wright bids Rangers supporters farewell today

After Scott Wright, a former teammate, posted a message on social media after moving to Birmingham City, Rangers midfielder Nico Raskin replied.

After completing a £300,000 move to the League One team, Wright posted a video compilation and a lengthy message on Instagram on August 31, bidding farewell to the players, staff, and supporters of the Green Bay Packers.

With a love heart and raised hands emoji, Raskin responded to the 27-year-old wide receiver who said he wished Philippe Clement and his former teammates “nothing but the best of luck for this coming season.”

Scott Wright and Rangers made the right choice in moving to Birmingham City.

Wright was clearly lower on the Ibrox hierarchy, despite a £300,000 move to the English third division suggesting otherwise. The winger had actually started three of Rangers’ first six games of the new campaign.

But Clement’s summer at Ibrox has been all about change, and since Wright has only scored seven goals in 68 league games for the Gers, it makes sense to let him go.

Raskin, on the other hand, is eager to play in his first games of the new season after suffering an injury during the preseason that has kept him out of the running thus far.

Nedim Bajrami’s arrival on deadline day, coinciding with the departure of both Wright and Todd Cantwell, is a major improvement over the pair as Clement completed his squad reorganisation.

The majority of fans wish Wright well on his farewell post, though not all of them do, based on the ‘limited’ comments. However, with Bajrami now in the building and Raskin returning, the Ibrox faithful will be looking forward rather than back.

Ranger’s link to “jaw-dropping” star player confirms “real” late bid update

Stuart Kettlewell says that rumours that Rangers wants to sign Motherwell star Lennon Miller probably won’t lead to any last-minute bids being made before the transfer deadline.

The manager of the teenage midfielder said that he “sincerely” did not expect any progress towards a move. On August 29, the Daily Record named Rangers as the team most linked to the move.

Football Scotland said on July 10 that the Light Blues were watching Miller play during the preseason. This was soon after they signed Connor Barron from Aberdeen, another young Scottish midfielder.

“Truly not,” Kettlewell told the Daily Record. It hasn’t come up in conversation. That being said, we’re all very happy with Lennon at the club and with everyone else who’s doing well.

“We haven’t talked about it, and our goal with players like Lennon and everyone else has always been the same: keep playing, keep putting yourself out there for 90 minutes every week, keep growing as a professional, and keep getting better.”

“Some of our players made the news over the weekend for how well they played, and we’ll try to keep that up.” I don’t see any bids at the last minute.

“No one needs to leave.” When I look at my team, I don’t think I can send anyone out right now.

Rangers are interested in the Motherwell star player after Connor Barron.

Barron’s arrival at Ibrox after leaving Pittodrie should have shown the people in charge at Ibrox that local talent is worth investing in when it’s available.

As soon as new transfer news comes out, you can get it FIRST on the Ibrox News WhatsApp channel.

A lot of the summer, Philippe Clement has been trying to get a second midfielder, but he hasn’t been able to because Kenny McLean has decided to stay at Norwich City and Joan Jordan’s situation at Sevilla is still unclear.

The Belgian manager has had to wait for players to leave so that he can bring in new ones. However, Ben Davies has agreed to join Birmingham City on loan, and Scott Wright will follow him on a permanent deal [Sky Sports, August 29]. Also, Todd Cantwell’s controversial situation is over after agreeing to move to Blackburn [Daily Record, August 29]. This means that some late-season space is now available.

If the Gers make a late move for a player that Kettlewell said had “jaw-dropping” skills that had shocked senior players in training [Daily Record, July 31, 7.06am], it might make fans who are worried about the team’s health excited.

Rangers signed Connor Barron on a free transfer. (Credit: Imago)

But it doesn’t look like it will happen during this window unless Clement is planning to surprise Kettlewell in a big way.

Derek Ferguson of the Ibrox News said that a move to Ibrox might be too early in the season. He also brought up the idea of buying him and loaning him back right away, but Rangers probably don’t have the extra money to do that.

Kris Boyd offers two Rangers players new positions at Celtic, one of whom can “fill in at centre-back”

 

Beating Ross County is one thing, but for Rangers and Philippe Clement, it’s quite another to break through their lengthy losing streak on the road against Old Firm rivals Celtic.

Furthermore, the manner in which the Gers destroyed Glasgow 6-0 on Saturday will provide them with a much-needed confidence boost before their otherwise difficult trip across town, but it also presents a dilemma for the Ibrox manager.

Does he continue to use the same Cyriel Dessers-inspired squad that defeated Ross County six games to none, figuring to “let it go”? Or does he adjust Rangers’ style to suit the opposition, making them a little less flamboyant and a little more calculated?

Prior to Sunday’s match, Clement’s team will be asking itself those kinds of questions.

Philippe Clement has important choices to make before Celtics vs. Rangers

“It’s very difficult to change that for Rangers coming off a 6-0 victory,” the legendary former striker Kris Boyd tells the Scottish Sun. “I understand, though, that you’re travelling to Celtic Park, a place that hasn’t been kind to you in recent years, away from home.

“The way the Rangers conducted themselves on Saturday impressed me greatly. Positive performances were evident there; Tom Lawrence scored two goals, Cyriel Dessers scored two goals, and Rabbi Matondo scored two goals.

“After watching the game again, I also felt that Jefte did a good job at left-back, even though he will face a completely different challenge at Celtic Park.”

Given the injury to fellow left-back Ridvan Yilmaz, Jefte is very likely to remain in the starting lineup.

Following the thrashing last weekend, Clement expressed his interest in seeing how the young Brazilian handled the biggest challenge of his Rangers career to date. It also appeared that Clement would include the excellent Connor Barron on his team sheet.

Still, Boyd is curious as to whether the adaptable Jefte could suit a different role against Celtic than he did against Ross County.

One of the main focusses of Rangers’ summer hiring campaign has been finding flexible players who can fill a range of positions. Jefte, for example, is a full-back by trade but has shown he can play a more advanced role on the wing.

Boyd believes that Rangers’ best chance of stopping Celtic’s formidable widemen at the source may lie in positioning Jefte on that flank ahead of Clement’s most versatile player, Dujon Sterling, who can play in all weather conditions and all positions.

Kris Boyd suggests a collaboration between Jefte and Dujon Sterling.

When Jefte one is up, will Sterling move to left back? Perhaps a little more circumspect?” Boyd enquires, casting doubt on the availability of Robin Propper, Leon Balogun, and Rabbi Matondo, who is connected to the exit.

“What will happen with Rabbi Matondo between now and Friday is unknown. Balogun (against Ross County) went off hurt. Propper, what’s going on over there?

“Sterling may need to step in at centre back.”

Only two of Rangers’ five games this season have been started by the former Chelsea player Sterling. The hard-charging 24-year-old has, however, frequently reserved his best performances for important events against important opponents.

In the exciting 3-3 draw against Celtic in April, he made an impression playing left back. Furthermore, it would be reasonable for Clement to question whether such success could be achieved this time around given how brilliant Nicolas Kuhn is right now.

In the meantime, the Rangers manager has downplayed rumours that Matondo might join Blackburn Rovers following his incredible display the previous time out.

Michael Gannon: Rangers may approve a loan transfer for the Ibrox star who is set to leave this week

Micahel Gannon reports that Rangers may approve Todd Cantwell’s loan departure before the August 30 transfer deadline.

The midfielder from England has submitted a transfer request to leave Ibrox this summer, and Philippe Clement has confirmed that he wants to go before the transfer window closes.

Where Cantwell will end up after this week is still unknown, but Daily Record writer Gannon thinks that if a permanent transfer cannot be arranged, Cantwell may be confirmed out on loan.

“It’s hard to see a way back for Cantwell,” he wrote in a Monday, August 26, Daily Record article.

If a permanent move cannot be arranged, a late loan deal is probably in store.

Will Todd Cantwell leave the Rangers before the deadline for Ibrox transfers?

Though Clement has stated time and time again that he will never close the door on Cantwell or any other player for that matter, it does feel as though there is no way back for the Englishman in Glasgow, as Gannon suggests.

Unlike Ianis Hagi, the 26-year-old appears to have no desire to improve, as evidenced by the fact that he isn’t even playing for the B Team [Rangers Review, 23 August], a decision that Clement confirmed was made by the player, not him.

Ideally, the Light Blues would locate a long-term partner who would not only cover Cantwell’s salary but also compensate him for his services, but there is not much time left to make that happen.

Todd Cantwell is trying to leave Rangers

While a loan agreement would only be a short-term fix, it would free up much-needed salary space for the Rangers, which could then be utilised to finance additions in the final days of the transfer window.

Ideally, a move of some kind can be arranged as soon as possible. The Gers simply cannot afford to let Cantwell’s future remain uncertain as they approach September; else, this will cause a significant distraction as the title race heats up.

An iconic figure from Celtic criticises the Rangers, saying, “My wife couldn’t believe what was happening to them”

Champions League controversy persists following a “ludicrous” refereeing call.

Gordon Strachan, the former manager of Celtic, has shown compassion for Rangers following their Champions League elimination earlier this month. He also thinks the referee who dismissed Jefte during their 2-0 loss to Dynamo Kyiv ought to find another line of work.

Last week, Rangers’ chances of qualifying for Europe’s top competition were dashed when they lost to the Ukrainians. After a 1-1 draw in Lublin, the match was evenly poised at Hampden until Brazilian defender Jefte challenged Oleksandr Karavaiev for an aerial ball and was controversially given a second yellow card by referee Marco Guida. Rangers, down to ten men, lost 2-0 and will now play in the Europa League.

Self-described “sympathiser” for Celtics, Strachan managed the team from 2005 to 2009. He claimed his wife was questioning the decision because it was so obviously wrong. The Italian official received harsh criticism for his actions; Philippe Clement, the manager of Rangers, called it one of the worst decisions he had ever made.

“It was very unfortunate what happened to Rangers in the Champions League,” Strachan stated. The red was the most absurd—and I do mean absurd—thing I’ve seen in a long time. It makes perfect sense to me why Philippe was furious. Mrs. Strachan and I were watching the game together because she is familiar with it. She’s watched over 2,000 live football games, so she knows the game. She was astounded by what was occurring to Rangers.

“The referee’s posturing afterward. He appeared to be thinking, “I’ve got this perfect; why are you talking to me?” We’re talking to you, but why? since it is absurd. After that, the referee ought to pursue another career. He ought to try something different, something that would make people truly detest him.”

The former player’s manager, Strachan, couldn’t disguise his disappointment in Rangers manager Philippe Clement at Coventry. Speaking to Lord Ping, the 67-year-old continued, “I was devastated for them, and for the players, who put in a great performance in the first leg.” “The dismissal had a significant effect on the outcome, and they now have to worry about earning a spot in the Europa League. Even though I support the Celtics, how could a football fan not feel the same way when they have a decision like that in a game that matters so much? It’s not nice, and I am aware of the feeling.”

Philippe Clement tells a young Rangers player which he wants to hear, putting the kid “on top of the pile”

For Robbie Fraser to repay Clement’s trust, he needs to step up and shine for the first team this season.

Back-to-school week makes Robbie Fraser think of the time when he was the new kid in class.

It has been 14 years since the young Rangers player first showed up at Ibrox to learn how to play football. The Glasgow boy had just started wearing short trousers when he signed up with his childhood heroes when he was seven years old. Over the past few years, there has been a thorough examination. Fraser has had to compete with many other hopefuls who were all trying to take his place as they finished each grade in Govan.

Fraser outlasted them all, and now that he’s 21, he’s finally moved up to Philippe Clement’s squad. This is when the real work for the Scotland Under-21 defender starts as he tries to pass his test for the first team. “Fourteen years is a crazy amount of time,” he said. When I joined the club for the first time, I was seven years old. It’s been a while, and I’ve seen everything at the club.

“I still remember my first day at the club.” I used to be a shy and nervous boy when I first came in. I didn’t like being around the players at first, but now I feel like I’ve come out of my shell. I’d like to move on from here.

“The club started on the street where I grew up and goes through me, my family, and everyone I know.” Like when I was younger, I had a season ticket. Being on the pitch with my family cheering me on makes it even better. I’m, so to speak, at the top of the list, and I hope I can stay here.

Robbie Fraser with his family

“That trip is something that not many people can take away from me.” Working on my craft every day has been very hard for me. I’m so proud to play for the Rangers’ first team. Thanks to all the coaches who have helped me over the years, I couldn’t name them all. But Brian Gilmore is one; he’s on the first team now.

“He worked at the school.” It’s great that we can come up with each other and for him to come up with me. A lot of coaches are in the gym, like Cal MacMaster, David McCallum, Malky Thompson, and Greg Statt and other guys like that when I was younger. There have been many great coaches.

“We’ve worked hard to get here. Is this the start of the real hard work?” That’s a whole different side of things. While you’re in the academy, you are working hard, but when you make it to the first team, things are very different. Yet I believe I am able to complete it.

Clement agrees without a doubt. Fraser was given a new two-year contract over the summer, just a few weeks after making his first-team debut against Dundee in May. This shows that he already believes in the young defender.

And last week, he said he wouldn’t be signing another left back to fill the spot left by Ridvan Yilmaz’s latest injury. He said this was Fraser’s big chance to compete with Jeffe for playing time in the first team. “That’s great to hear,” said Fraser, who came on as a substitute in the second half of Saturday’s win over St. Johnstone in the Premier Sports Cup. It was only his third senior game.

“That’s exactly what you want.” I work every day to try to make the most of any free time I have. Ridvan is a great player, and the team will miss having him on the pitch. I have the chance to step in and show what I can do, though.

“Every day you work for moments, and you have to be ready for them when they come.” I have to be alert because the manager often talks about how he can believe in young players.

“This is a big step up.” I’ve been training with the first-team guys for a while now, so you do get used to it more. Getting some time on the pitch is very helpful. I’m happy and feel like I’m a part of it now. I don’t want to be known as the younger one. I want to make it to the first team and try to stick there. I’ll try to keep going from here.

“The boss has been great.” He says nice things about me, talks to me, and thinks I’ll do well in life. No changes were made to the sentence.

“He doesn’t want me to change.” Keep up the same attitude and work ethic, because he can tell that my pitch is good, which is great to hear. He didn’t say for sure that I’d get X number of games, but he did tell me to keep doing what I’m doing, and chances will come up, like Saturday night against St. Johnstone.

“All I have to do is wait.” I’m aware that there are some great players nearby. It makes sense that I might not get the minutes I want, but I’m in a great place to work and I can only see myself getting better.

With an easy win over Craig Levein’s team last weekend, Gers began their defence of the League Cup. After beating Dundee, they will host them in the last eight next month. Fraser said, “We’re really happy to be through.” That was the most important thing. That was the goal before the game on Saturday. Though we had hoped for a smoother process, we did our part and are now moving on to the next round. We will see how we do there.

Rangers ‘repeatedly’ extend offers to teams for the player, who has made multiple starts in 24/25 game – Chris Jack

Chris Jack claims that Rangers have not heard back from any serious suitors for winger Scott Wright this summer.

The winger has been “repeatedly” offered to England’s lower leagues, but there hasn’t been any real interest in the 27-year-old, according to a post on the Rangers Review website [August 20].

Given that Wright is in the final year of his contract and that Rabbi Matondo and reports of a move to Leeds United [Football Scotland] have been played down, it seems more likely that Wright will depart Galway this summer.

Most likely, Scott Wright will depart the Rangers this summer.

It appears that none of the current Rangers players will be safe until the transfer window closes on August 30.

In addition, Tom Lawrence, Adam Devine, and Alex Lowry are all in the last year of their contracts and may be traded this summer if the Giants are unable to raise the money to extend them.

Under Philippe Clement, Wright started every game in the 2024–2025 season, including games against Hearts and Dynamo Kyiv. However, in the last few weeks, he has fallen back in the lineup, trailing Václav Cerny, Matondo, and Ross McCausland.

The attacker has a £2 million price tag [Daily Record] set by the Gers; his 120 appearances have yielded 12 goals and 7 assists, so it would be best for all parties if he left right away.

Wright now has to wait to see if a team will accept the winger for the stated fee; the longer it takes for a team to make a move, the more likely it is that the Light Blues will have to think about reducing their asking price.

With just ten days remaining in the transfer window, Clement must move quickly to ensure he doesn’t field a team full of unwanted and underperforming players. Rangers are in a holding pattern, waiting to sell their unwanted players to make room for new additions.

Clement is planning a move for Rangers to get their dream replacement for Yilmaz, who is said to be as “brave as a lion”

The loss on Tuesday night means that Glasgow Rangers are already out of the Champions League before the playoff round.

The 2-0 loss to Dynamo Kyiv was expected given the current state of the team. This puts even more pressure on Philippe Clement to try to improve his team before the end of the month.

This season, some positions don’t have enough depth to be competitive in all of them. At the present time, there are holes in the squad all over.

Injuries were a big reason why they didn’t do well in 2023–24, and since the season has already begun, Oscar Cortes and Ridvan Yilmaz may have to miss some time.

 

The latter hasn’t had the best luck at Ibrox when it comes to injuries. Could his most recent one keep him from playing for a long time?

A injury happened to Ridvan Yilmaz against Dynamo Kiev.

The Turkish defender has been the best choice at left back so far this season. He has come out from behind Borna Barisic, who has been playing there since 2022.

Yilmaz has a lot of potential, but he needed consistent minutes to build up his confidence. That’s exactly what he did at times last year.

In fact, he played in 33 games across all competitions. Likely, it would have been more if he hadn’t been hurt while playing for his country in March and had to miss a few weeks.

Since then, he has started all four of his team’s first four games this season, but things went horribly against Kyiv last week.

Not long after taking a shot at goal, Yilmaz was seen being carried off in obvious pain. The young defender didn’t look good.

Since then, Clement has said that the Turkey international will be out for four to six weeks. During that time, the Gers will be short-handed in that position.

EXCLUSIVE! Ridvan Yilmaz Rangers injury fears grow as former Man Utd golden boy emerges as potential transfer replacement | Keith Jacksonhttps://t.co/NaZ5FUR6As pic.twitter.com/ikSLdtgRkK

— Daily Record Sport (@Record_Sport) August 15, 2024

Could this force Clement’s hand in the window for transfers? As he only has Jefte and Robbie Fraser to choose from at left back, and both aren’t very experienced at this level even though they have a lot of potential.

As far as the Gers’ transfer activity goes, they might try to sign a former Manchester United starlet…

Rangers want to get a new defender from Manchester United.

The Daily Record says that the Belgian could look for a replacement for Yilmaz in the transfer market.

To fix his problems on the left side of the defence, he might turn to Brandon Williams, who used to play well for Manchester United.

It says that the club has been interested in the former England youth international all summer, and this new development could make them move for him as they plan a possible swoop.

The English player was let go by Manchester United at the end of the 2017-18 season. So, he can be transferred for free, which Clement might be very interested in since he doesn’t have any money.

The club might have another choice in this part of the pitch, which would give Jefte the chance to move up to a more advanced role on the left wing.

Rangers are looking into a deal for former Manchester United defender Brandon Williams this summer after suffering a major injury blow. Written by @DMFv2 https://t.co/or5sksZByB

— GiveMeSport (@GiveMeSport) August 16, 2024

Williams might not be the big-name player that fans at Ibrox are hoping for right now, but he could be a good addition to the first team as a dream replacement for Yilmaz.

The numbers for Brandon Williams’s time at Manchester United

The defender made it to the United first team during Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s first full season as manager of the club, which was the 2019–20 season.

He played 36 times in all competitions, scored once, and set up another goal. It looked like he could be the next player from the academy to become a regular on the first team.

The Norwegian coach even said nice things about the left back after he won a penalty that helped United beat Partizan Belgrade in 2019.

“And I thought Brandon was the best player,” he said. He’s done great in the few games he’s played. “The kid is brave as a lion and helped us win.”

Unfortunately, he couldn’t really get better after this. Over the next three seasons, he only played 15 times for Manchester United, including a loan stint at Premier League club Norwich City.

Erik ten Hag finally decided that he had a future at United after another loan spell, this time at Ipswich Town. He scored two goals in 15 games for the East Anglian team, but was released at the end of the season.

What could the Rangers get from Brandon Williams?

The defender played 47 times in the Premier League for both United and Norwich. This shows that he has the right mindset to do well in one of the best leagues in the world.

Williams did show how good he was at defence in the Championship during his loan spell with Ipswich in the first half of last season.

This run and finish from Brandon Williams for Ipswich sums up the freedom they are playing with at the moment.

Kieran McKenna deserves huge praise, they look as though they’ll be in the automatic promotion race for the long haul. pic.twitter.com/R0YzuFk0k1

— HLTCO (@HLTCO) October 8, 2023

In fact, he won 4.7 competitions per game, which is 58% of the time. He also made 1.9 tackles, 0.9 interceptions, and was only dribbled past 0.7 times per game.

In the next 14 men’s competitions, Williams was in the top 5% for tackles per 90 minutes (3.14), and he was in the top 10% for interceptions per 90 minutes (1.57). This is more proof of his defensive prowess, but on a much bigger scale.

Last season, Yilmaz won 3.4 duels, but he only made one tackle and 0.7 interceptions per game. This shows how different the two defenders are.

Williams, who is only 23, could be a good addition to Ibrox for Clement, especially since he isn’t very good on the left side of the defence.

This is a move that has little risk and a lot of reward. When the time comes, Williams could be sold for a profit if the move doesn’t work out.

If that happens, Clement will have gotten a good defender from the Premier League for very little money. He will now be part of the first team.

Now it’s your turn, Clement and Co.

After a “tragic death,” a heartbroken former Rangers star pays tribute to his brother

In remembrance of his recently deceased brother Alan, former Ibrox favourite Dave MacKinnon posted a video of pipers performing in the city centre while he and his wife visited the area.

Former player Dave MacKinnon has paid tribute to the “good man” and shared the tragic news of the death of his younger brother.

On Thursday, the former Ibrox favourite took to social media to announce the death of his brother Alan.

In his post, MacKinnon, 68, included a video of pipers performing in the heart of the city and mentioned that he and his spouse had travelled into the city to honour his brother.

He wrote: “Today, after being ordered to remain grounded due to the tragic death of my younger brother Alan, I spent an impromptu day in Glasgow’s tunnel with my amazing wife.

“To his memory, the magnificent meal at the Ivy was a magnificent start, followed by the talented young pipers.”

“Life is precious enjoy.”

MacKinnon played four years for the Light Blues (1982–1986), making 168 league appearances.

The defender, who was born in Glasgow, has also played for Dundee, Forfar, Partick Thistle, and Airdrieonians.

He was at the Ivy on Thursday in tribute to Alan. (Image: X.com)

He disclosed that his brother passed away following an episode of encephalitis, a dangerous illness that causes inflammation of the brain.

Additionally, he expressed his concern that Alan might have contracted the West Nile virus that has been ravaging Europe this summer.

“Thanks to all for your kind thoughts, he was on holiday in Cyprus and may have been bitten by a mosquito carrying the West Nile virus sweeping Europe,” the brother said, sharing a photo of himself with his sibling.

He was among the tiny percentage that was unable to combat the encephalitis that resulted from it.

“A good man and a wonderful brother.”

Why VAR refrained from interfering in the horrifying Jefte Rangers red card decision

VAR was unable to overturn the red card given to Jeffre during Rangers’ defeat to Dynamo Kyiv.

After a second caution in the second half, the 20-year-old Brazilian was substituted out.

Replays revealed there was nothing wrong with the challenge as the player had won the ball fairly, even though Jefte was declared to have elbowed his opponent in the face during an aerial duel at Hampden.

Despite this, Rangers manager Philippe Clement called the decision made by referee Marco Guida to dismiss Jefte for a second yellow card “the worst in 30 years.”

Replays of the Champions League third round qualifying match, which the visitors won 2-0, showed Jefte’s innocence, but VAR was unable to intervene in the situation.

This is due to the fact that a second yellow card is not a decision that VAR can reverse.

Only four “match-changing scenarios” are eligible for VAR intervention: goals and offences leading up to goals, penalty calls, straight red card calls, and mistaken identity.

For that reason, after Guida’s decision to dismiss Jefte for a second yellow at Hampden, there was nothing the VAR officials could do.

The Champions League guidelines regarding the use of VAR state: “In four match-changing scenarios—goals and offences leading up to goals, penalty decisions and offences leading up to penalties, direct red card incidents, and mistaken identity—the Video Assistant Referee will only step in when they have the evidence for a clear and obvious mistake.

“This includes goals scored after a foul during the attacking phase, or from an offside position.”

According to James Tavernier, the referee had explained why Jefte had been sent off for elbowing. “I spoke to him [the referee] as it happened,” he declared.It was an elbow in the face, he clarified.

“When I think back on it during the game, he rises really early. It didn’t even seem like a free kick to me. I assumed he rose early. What he’s done has no malicious intent.

A 50/50 ball is being thrown into the air. Jefte rises very early. He gives him a flying kick. I’m not sure how much communication there is. That obviously has a significant impact.”

Kris Boyd lashes out at Rangers’ Champions League suffering as the Ibrox hero rushes to rework VAR after a red card

The analyst lost all control of his rage as Dynamo Kyiv defeated the Light Blues.

Rangers’ disastrous Champions League exit made for a difficult evening for Ibrox hero Kris Boyd, who was covering the match in the Sky Sports studio.

The game was close, but referee Marco Guida controversially gave Jeffre a second yellow card, which turned the tide and put the Scottish Premiership team on the defensive at Hampden as they tried to find a way into the group stage of Europe’s top competition. Oleksandr Pikhalyonok and Nazar Voloshyn scored goals in the final ten minutes to send the Light Blues crashing out of the Champions League, taking advantage of the extra man.

And Boyd, a beloved player by Rangers supporters, was unable to contain his rage when watching the two late strikes on TV. The former striker, known as “Boyd-cam” in the studio, was heard angrily screaming “no” and raising his arms as Pikhalyonok found the net. Boyd reached boiling point once more a few moments later when stand-in Voloshyn discovered the net, yelling and hurling his pen throughout the studio.

Even though Boyd’s response after the game was more reserved, he was still perplexed by the man in the middle’s choice. “It’s beyond me how it is given as a second yellow card,” he continued. The player from Dyanmo Kyiv falls to the side, and the referee sees it and gives him a yellow card.

“I understand that VAR does not allow you to check a second yellow card, but this situation is appallingly bad.” However, you need to get over that and move on. After that, Rangers had a few more opportunities, but it seemed like they could have played all night without scoring. Dynamo scored two goals after hitting them on the counterattack.”

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.