Rangers: BBC journalist surprised as Philippe Clement closes on ‘significant’ Ibrox development
Kheredine Idessane believes the speed of the ascent from Rangers to the top of the SPL table under Philippe Clement has “taken everyone by surprise”.
Writing on the BBC Sport website on Wednesday (21 February), the journalist said the phrase “10-in-a-row” immediately resonates with both Old Firm clubs as the Gers close in on that many consecutive victories in a row.
He added that if the Belgian can guide them to that achievement with a victory over Hearts on Saturday (24 February), it would be “significant” for a number of reasons as it would be the first time he’s achieved that feat with the Light Blues and it would create a gap at the top of the table to the Hoops.
“The speed of their ascent has taken everyone by surprise, as has the plateau their title rivals seem to be stuck on,” said Idessane. “Rangers on the rise, Celtic stalling badly. An intriguing race to the Premiership peak lies ahead in the final few top-flight fixtures.
“The phrase ‘10-in-a-row’ immediately resonates with both sides of the Glasgow divide. Neither team has ever won that many titles back-to-back but Clement is at least closing in on that magic number for consecutive victories. If he gets there this weekend, it would be significant for a number of reasons.
“It would be the first time that particular box had been ticked under his impressive stewardship so far. Ten wins in a row across all competitions speaks to momentum and consistency. An engine ticking over nicely, purring towards top gear.
“It would also create the kind of gap at the top to test the nerve of any rival, especially one that’s faltering at the moment. Celtic face a trip to Motherwell on Sunday where they could well kick off five points off the pace. Scoreboard pressure can have a big impact on sportspeople – the feeling that there’s little room for error.”
Rangers can pick up statement win against Hearts
It would be a statement win for Rangers if they can see off Hearts at Ibrox to make it 10 wins in a row in all competitions.
The Jambos come into the clash in a rich vein of form and will be looking to make it a tricky game for the Gers in their pursuit of the title.
But Clement will know these are the type of matches, particularly at home, where they have to come out on top if they want to lift the trophy this season.
There had been very little for the Light Blues to lose before they leapfrogged Celtic following their victory over St Johnstone, but now their destiny is in their hands.
While that does bring pressure and will test Clement’s side in a different way, he will be keen to keep their feet on the ground and focused on the task ahead.
In other Rangers news, a Gers duo have been named in the Team of the Week for their performances against St Johnstone.
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