Mark Warburton and his public warning to Michael Beale and Rangers were ‘naughty’ – Hugh Keevins
Ex-Rangers manager Mark Warburton was “naughty” to issue a public warning to Michael Beale about the trials and tribulations of the manager job in the Ibrox dugout, according to Hugh Keevins.
The 42-year-old took charge of his first game at the Glasgow club on Saturday (10 December), a 3-0 victory over Bayer Leverkusen, ahead of a return to Scottish Premiership action against Hibernian (Thursday 15 December).
Warburton, who managed the Gers between 2015-2017 and also managed London-based QPR, issued a statement to the new manager hinting that the pressure of the job was something he might not be prepared for.
And writing for Daily Record, Keevins expressed his annoyance at the 60-year-old’s comments.
He wrote: “Incidentally, I thought Mark Warburton, late of Rangers’ parish and once in charge of QPR, was a bit naughty with his public warning to Beale about the difference between standing on the touchline and sitting in the dugout at Ibrox.
“When you’re their No.1 it’s a different ball game,” Warburton said, referring to the fans. “What are these guys like?
If they’re not turning up in the directors’ box and doing selfies in the pub around the corner – while another manager is still in charge of the team – they’re sending subliminal messages to each other.”
Not needed
Warburton’s comments are rather mistimed and not entirely needed.
Yes, in the wrong hands, the Ranger’s job can be seen as a poisoned chalice, but under the correct management is an opportunity like few others.
The Glasgow side are a huge club and coupled with its loyal fanbase and historic success, Beale will surely be relishing the opportunity to turn things around for the team.
Beale and the club simply need to focus on just one thing right now – winning football matches.
If they want to stand any chance of reeling in league-leaders Celtic – who find themselves nine points clear in the SPL – they will need to hit the ground running against Hibs on Thursday.
The early signs were promising in their friendly at the weekend, and the attacking intent so many fans called for under Giovanni van Bronckhorst was clear for all to see.
Fans should certainly be excited by the prospect of Beale-ball at Ibrox.
In other Rangers news, Michael Beale has outlined his desire to sign Malik Tillman on a permanent basis.