Ianis Hagi has struggled for minutes at Rangers this term [credit: SPFL on YouTube]
Ianis Hagi has struggled for minutes at Rangers this term [credit: SPFL on YouTube]

Ianis Hagi likely set for Rangers transfer exit as Philippe Clement unmoved by top attitude

Derek Ferguson

At the start of 2024, former Rangers star Derek Ferguson agreed to become Ibrox News' newest pundit. Ferguson started his career at Ibrox, making his league debut for the club aged 17 in a draw against Hearts in 1984. He eventually left Rangers in 1990 after making 91 league appearances and winning two Scottish titles. Ferguson went on to play for the likes of Hearts, Sunderland and Falkirk before retiring after a spell at Raith Rovers in 2006. Now, Ibrox News is delighted to have the former midfielder sharing his weekly thoughts on all things Rangers.

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Philippe Clement remains unconvinced by Ianis Hagi so a Rangers exit for the attacking midfielder would be no surprise, says Derek Ferguson.

The ex-Ibrox midfielder has been impressed by the Romanian's commitment and his attitude during a season which saw him exiled in the B Team for months, but doesn't think the manager is particularly moved.

A contract dispute was seemingly the root cause of Hagi being excluded from the first-team picture until the start of October, at which point a deal was reached where the 26-year-old sacrificed a wage increase he would have been due in order to return to the fold [Daily Record, 1 October].

And while Ferguson is sure that if the 43-cap international is given the chance to make an impact this term he will give his all, he is far less certain that such an opportunity will arrive so admits an exit could happen.

Clement had previously indicated there was no chance Hagi would even play for the club again during the late summer [Daily Mail, 31 August], before seemingly wavering and suggesting the decision had been partially made by others.

A red card in his first game back against St Johnstone on 6 October complicated Hagi's return, and means he has made just two substitute appearances in total this season.

Derek Ferguson unsurprised by possible Rangers exit for Ianis Hagi

Philippe Clement Rangers
Rangers manager Philippe Clement [Credit: Imago]

Ferguson exclusively told Ibrox News: "I tell you what, his mindset, I don't think that's in question. If he's asked to go and perform and gets an opportunity I think he'll give you everything, I just think he's that type of boy.

"Is he going to be the manager's first choice? I'm not so sure. I've got a feeling deep down with Clement, I don't think he fancies him to be honest.

"What he clearly needed, because we've been struggling with so many injuries, a deal had to be struck where they brought him back into the squad.

"So with Hagi I wouldnae be surprised if he leaves in the summer, but what you're going to get with him is a good attitude.

"And if he gets an opportunity he'll go out and give you 100 per cent, but whether he'll get the opportunity is another question."

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