Rangers: Philippe Clement ‘mood swings’ to be tested amid Lawrence Shankland situation v Hearts
The mood swings of Philippe Clement will be tested if Hearts captain Lawrence Shankland spoils the occasion for Rangers in their Scottish Cup semi-final, according to Hugh Keevins.
Writing on the Daily Record website on Sunday (21 April), the journalist pointed out how the Gers boss was advised to sign the Scotland international in January, but that he showed no inclination he wanted to take the 28-year-old forward to Ibrox.
He said the clash between the two sides at Hampden Park will tell whether the Belgian’s indifference was justified or questionable, adding that he could do with it being the former as the Light Blues look to book their place in the final against Celtic.
“Clement’s mood swings will be put to the test if anything goes wrong, particularly if Hearts’ captain Lawrence Shankland has anything to do with souring the occasion for Rangers,” said Keevins.
“Clement was advised often enough during the January transfer window that signing Shankland could tip the balance in the title race. But the manager showed no inclination whatsoever to make any move for a player he had seen at first-hand when both were working in Belgium.
“This afternoon will tell if Clement’s indifference was justified or questionable. As things stand, he could do with it being the former and not the latter.”
Lawrence Shankland could make Rangers rue missed opportunity
It would be incredibly frustrating for the Rangers fans if Shankland were to get on the scoresheet for Hearts after many believed he would have been an excellent signing in January.
With the Gers still appearing to be lacking a centre-forward, the Jambos captain could have been the ideal man to lead the line for them in their bid to secure more trophies this season.
But it wasn’t to be and the Scotsman potentially now stands in the way of Clement’s side booking their place in the Scottish Cup final.
He’s been in fine form during this campaign, having registered 28 goals in 41 appearances to show why he’s currently thought of as the best striker in the country.
The Light Blues will be hoping he isn’t on song at Hampden as they look to get back to winning ways and earn a much-needed confidence boost on the back of a disappointing run of form.
In other Rangers news, Andy Walker has shared a “brutal” admission after what Philippe Clement did.
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