Rangers early team news v Celtic as Philippe Clement shares Leon Balogun update
Rangers boss Philippe Clement has shared an early team news update ahead of this weekend’s Old Firm showdown with Celtic.
The Gers make the trip to Parkhead on Saturday (11 May) knowing that a rare victory there is realistically a must if the club’s Scottish Premiership aspirations are to remain alive.
Clement provided an update on the availability of his players at his pre-match news conference on Friday (10 May), as shared by Rangers’ official X account.
Leon Balogun “is doubtful”, while no other players are due to return from injuries and there are no fresh concerns.
That means as many as six other first-teamers could miss out, with Connor Goldson, Rabbi Matondo, Abdallah Sima, Ryan Jack, Oscar Cortes and Danilo Pereira all nursing injuries.
Rangers must get the job done against Celtic
Unlike in the most recent meeting – a quite ridiculous 3-3 draw – the pressure is now on Rangers to come away with victory.
If Clement had his time again, he surely would have gone all out for victory at Ibrox in a game that was there for the taking.
No Gers fan needs reminding of just how long it has been since last coming away from Parkhead with a win, but it would make it all the more special to do so this weekend.
The Light Blues have managed to get back on track, but now the fear is that it is too little, too late in terms of the club’s hopes of catching Celtic.
A victory on enemy territory really would set up an almighty conclusion to the campaign, whereas defeat would mean all focus is on the Scottish Cup final and a chance at redemption.
Even without as many as half a team of players, this Gers side is still strong enough to get the job done. From Jack Butland in goal to Cyriel Dessers up top, every last player needs to step up.
Fingers crossed for a famous win that keeps the title dreams alive.
In other Rangers news, fresh footage has emerged of Jack Butland clashing with Gers supporters last weekend.
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