Philippe Clement bites at journalist over John Lundstram ahead of Rangers Scottish Cup final v Celtic
Philippe Clement has refused to comment on John Lundstram and whether he will start for Rangers against Celtic in the Scottish Cup final.
The Gers are preparing for yet another Old Firm clash with the latest and final instalment of the season coming on Saturday (25 May).
The last time the two met saw Celtic take all three points after Lundstram was sent off for a poor challenge on Alistair Johnson.
Speaking ahead of the final at Hampden, transcribed by the Daily Record (24 May), Clement didn’t want to discuss if the Englishman was going to start.
He said: “I will never make decisions about what fans are thinking because that’s emotion and they don’t see training, they don’t know how the players are.
“I don’t need to answer that question about John starting or not. It’s about the decision with my staff about what I see in training and have seen in the last couple of months in the games.”
Should John Lundstram start for Rangers v Celtic?
There is no doubt that Lundstram has been one of the Light Blues’ best performers throughout the season.
His challenge against Celtic looked ok on first viewing but looking through the lens of VAR it was clear it was a high tackle worthy of a red card.
This spelt an end to any hopes of Rangers getting a win at Parkhead, especially after an earlier bizarre own goal.
Clement’s side needed a win to maintain a Scottish Premiership title chase and Lundstram’s performance ended any hope of that.
This has sparked discussion as to whether or not he should start in the Scottish Cup final against Celtic but after over a week away he will be well rested for the clash.
Lundstram has featured in over 50 appearances in all competitions for the club this season, including 34 in the Scottish Premiership [FotMob].
His performances over the course of the season make him worthy of a start at Hampden on Saturday (25 May).
In other Rangers news, an early team news boost was shared ahead of the Scottish Cup final v Celtic.
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