Sky Sports journalist shares Philippe Clement sack decision verdict after Rangers v Celtic
Dan Bardell believes that Rangers have to stand by Philippe Clement and keep him as manager regardless of the Scottish Cup final result on Saturday (25 May).
The Gers are preparing for their final game of the season against Celtic at Hampden Park looking to win the cup for the first time since the 2021/22 season.
After missing out on the Scottish Premiership title to their Old Firm rivals, Clement is under pressure to get one over on Brendan Rogers.
Sky Sports and talkSPORT journalist Bardell believes even if the Light Blues lose, their manager should be given a vote of confidence to continue in the role.
Speaking exclusively to Ibrox News, Bardell said: “At some point, Rangers have got to stick by somebody. They can’t just keep going around this endless cycle of changing managers every season. I think they’ve had good moments this season where results have been good.
“I think managers need that pre-season. I just think you’ve got to give him a little bit of time because it’s not like there have been no signs of positivity.
“At the end of the day, one of two teams is going to win the trophy in Scotland. It’s pretty much 50:50 and it’s easy to come out the wrong side of that.
“Even if they were to win the cup, it doesn’t show they are going in the right direction but I’d say give him more time regardless.“
How can Rangers win in Scottish Cup v Celtic?
Rangers have struggled in Old Firm fixtures in recent years which has seen them fail to win against Celtic since May 2023.
After a year without a win in the derby, the cup final will pose an opportunity to right the wrongs of the past 12 months.
It is clear that Rogers’ side has holes which can be exploited which St Mirren managed to do on the final day of the season.
Mark O’Hara scored a brace on the day and the Rangers players will be keen to prove they can do similar at Hampden.
Stephen Walsh struggled at Parkhead and if he starts in the final the likes of Cyriel Dessers should get at him throughout.
Cantwell has scored two in two games and has hit a good run of form just in time for the final with Ross McCausland also on the scoresheet against Hearts.
Clement has to get the best out of his side as his job may be on the line if he doesn’t win the cup.
In other Rangers news, one medical is completed while another is being lined up for an early-summer double transfer swoop.
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