Andy Walker issues Rangers transfer claim in Celtic battle amid ‘outrageous’ verdict on Philippe Clement
Andy Walker is impressed by Philippe Clement but claims Rangers “need better players” in January if they are to have a chance of overhauling Celtic.
The Sky Sports pundit said on the Go Radio Football Show on 7 November he likes the Gers boss’ “chat” and the fact that he doesn’t make “outrageous statements”, but believes he will need to likely make multiple signings in the winter window to challenge.
According to Walker the Rangers side “isn’t good enough” to win the title and could need as many as five new arrivals in what could be a “difficult window”.
Walker said (30m 50s): “Yeah I think he is making a difference and I just like his chat. As I said from the day he was first introduced, he’s calm and he’s measured. He doesn’t make outrageous statements, and I like the way he goes about his business.
“I also like the line that he gave everyone that ‘I’m not a magician’. I think he realises this squad probably isn’t good enough to win the title and it will need some additions in January.
“It will be very interesting to see if that’s one or two players, or is it three, four or five? It’s potentially a difficult window in comparison to the summer one, but if Rangers are serious about chipping away at this lead that Celtic have I think they need better players.
“Celtic have got, in my view, a better squad notwithstanding all the injuries and suspensions that both clubs get.”
Second revamp
Clement has drawn a lot of praise for his start at Ibrox and much of it has focused on the difference in approach between him and Michael Beale.
Walker’s assessment appears to be very much the same, and while his methods and attitude may indeed be more sensible it will ultimately come down to results just the same.
So far he has done virtually all he could have done in that regard, with only the draw in Europe preventing him from having a 100% record.
That has lifted hopes that he might still be able to start to challenge Brendan Rodgers this term, with the 30 December Old Firm set to be crucial.
The Belgian has revitalised some of the players who were looking lost under Beale, with John Lundstram barely able to contain his delight with the new man.
Clement is going to need to get as much as possible from the current squad for the Viaplay Cup final and the next meeting with Celtic, but after that he would surely love to be able to add some of his own players in the New Year.
In other Rangers news, Tom English has asked a Light Blues question amid doubt over Celtic’s ambition in the wake of their 6-0 loss.