Philippe Clement told Borna Barisic has ‘eye on the exit’ ahead of Rangers Old Firm clash v Celtic
Rangers manager Philippe Clement has been told that Borna Barisic already has “one eye on the exit” by Stephen McGowan ahead of the Old Firm derby against Celtic.
Philippe Clement’s side face their Glasgow rivals at Hampden Park in the Scottish Cup final on Saturday (25 May) as they look to complete a domestic double and win their first Old Firm clash under the Belgian’s management.
While Daily Mail journalist McGowan insists this is a game Clement has to win to keep the faith at Ibrox, he has slammed the mentality of several players in his squad including Barisic heading into the crucial clash.
Writing for the Daily Mail (24 May) he said: “James Tavernier and Connor Goldson are the Devon Lochs of Scottish football. The minute the finishing line looms on the horizon, their legs seem to go.
“A red card at Parkhead the other week showed why John Lundstram can’t necessarily be trusted to keep the head on the big occasion. Borna Barisic throws in a lovely cross but already has one eye on the exit.
“Todd ‘TikTok’ Cantwell spends his days reading social media instead of reading the room.”
Will Borna Barisic leave Rangers and Ibrox during the summer transfer window?
It has been obvious for some time now that Barisic will be leaving Glasgow this summer, having been linked with a move away from Ibrox from the first week of the Scottish Premiership season.
Reports suggest that the Croatian international could well be heading to Turkey to join Super Lig side Trabzonspor on a free transfer, alongside teammate Lundstram who also appears ready to say his goodbyes.
But with Ridvan Yilmaz a major doubt for the clash at Hampden Park on Saturday, Clement may well have to throw Barisic back into the fold at left-back despite his impending move away this summer.
Hopefully, the Croatian won’t be too distracted and will be able to produce one final performance in a light blue shirt before completing his exit. He has looked off of the pace when he has featured in recent weeks, but he is capable of a moment of magic.
If the Gers don’t find a way to beat the Hoops, the pressure will only continue to mount on Clement at Ibrox.
In other Rangers news, the Light Blues have been told to hand Ryan Jack a new contract extension at Ibrox after an injury update
For more Rangers news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.