Philippe Clement told ‘harsh’ Rangers truth in Celtic title verdict
Chris Jack believes Rangers title chances ended “some time ago” despite the 3-0 victory at Ross County on Sunday.
The Gers put in an impressive performance during their Scottish Premiership clash on 8 December and are now just two points adrift of second-placed Aberdeen but still 11 back of leaders Celtic.
Philippe Clement’s role as manager of the Ibrox outfit has been under some severe scrutiny recently but with recent wins against the likes of Nice and a 6-0 demolition of Kilmarnock, he seems safe for now.
Writing for the Rangers Review website (8 December), Jack shared his thoughts on the Gers’ recent form and the “harsh truth” Clement has to hear.
“The gap to Aberdeen stood at nine points heading into November. Now there is just two between them at the end of the first week of December,” he wrote.
“Crucially, Clement’s side also have a game in hand as they seek to move into second spot in the Premiership standings. This was a job well done all round for Rangers.
“Clement will, of course, always be judged against Celtic and that particular chasm at the top of the table continues to damn the Belgian boss. Dreams of a title triumph were ended some time ago. Indeed, many will argue there was never any chance of a challenge this term in the first place.
“The league table doesn’t lie and it will continue to tell a harsh truth for Clement while Rangers sit so far adrift of their Old Firm rivals. Moving ahead of Aberdeen would be a small step in the right direction, though, and the Dons’ recent downturn has opened that door.
“Rangers made the most of the chance following Aberdeen’s draw with St Johnstone and the reaction since a dreadful showing against Dundee United has been just what Clement required.”
Rangers and Philippe Clement need to build on their recent run of form
The Gers have performed well below par in the Scottish Premiership this season, with the team currently sitting third in the league.
While their recent form has been surprisingly impressive, it still feels like a lot more could come from the Ibrox outfit.
The fact Clement has chosen to change up his tactical style to allow two strikers to lead the attacking line shows that he’s willing to experiment in order to find the best way for his team to get results.
Hamza Igamane has left a rather solid impression over his last few outings with the Morocco international netting in three of the Gers’ last four games.
Their next game against Tottenham on 12 December in the Europa League is set to be their biggest challenge yet and, seen as though they’ve just lost 4-3 against their Blue London rivals, Ange Postecoglou will no doubt be looking for some vengeance.
Only time will tell what the future holds but if the Ibrox outfit can continue their run of form, an upset could be in the making.
In other Rangers news, Kris Boyd has blasted a senior player who is “unreliable”.
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