Nedim Bajrami ‘to despise new Rangers decision’ as Friday announcement made
Philippe Clement finally looks to be earning some respect back at Ibrox as Rangers continue to turn their form around.
The Gers are through to the Europa League round of 16, overcoming the likes of Nice, Tottenham and Union St Gilloise in an incredible campaign, and that is just the tip of the iceberg.
Supporters have been calling for the manager to be sacked continuously over the last few months, but the Belgian has tried everything to turn the team’s fortunes across all competitions.
Despite falling miles behind Celtic in the Scottish Premiership, and still 13 points adrift of their rivals, a run of just one defeat in 15 league matches has seen Chris Sutton throw doubt on the title race [Daily Record].
Clement is not ready to give up on lifting silverware this season, even after such a horrendous start to the campaign, and the boss has already started making plans for the next round of the Europa League.
Rangers ring changes as Europa League squad announcement made
The Light Blues have announced [7 February] that Ianis Hagi, Danilo and Clinton Nsiala will also join the European squad after being left out for the knockout stages.
They replace injured duo Oscar Cortes and Neraysho Kasanwirjo, with Kieran Dowell also dropping out after his winter move to Birmingham City, and add some much-needed strengthening.
While Hagi and Danilo will both be thrilled to show off their talents in European competition, already earning rave reviews in Scotland, some of the current squad members might not take too lightly.
Nedim Bajrami has started all eight of the Gers’ matches in the Europa League, but with just a single goal to his name, supporters are becoming frustrated with his lack of impact.
The Albanian international will surely despise the new decision and be checking over his shoulder now that Hagi is available.
Ianis Hagi ready to play starring role in Europa League campaign
It is unclear exactly who Rangers will need to battle against to advance to the quarter-finals of the competition, but with Hagi now available for selection, he will do his absolute best in the next round.
Since overcoming the contract issues with the hierarchy at Ibrox, the 26-year-old has been incredible for Clement, notching three goals and five assists in just 15 Scottish Premiership games.
With a goal or assist every 125 minutes, he could be incredibly key for the rest of the Gers’ season.
Sadly for Bajrami, that could mean losing his spot in the starting XI.