No Excuse: Why Rangers Should Sack Philippe Clement Now
Rangers Football Club is no stranger to intense scrutiny, but the spotlight on manager Philippe Clement has never been brighter. With the team sitting 15 points behind arch-rivals Celtic in the Scottish Premiership, fans and pundits alike are calling for decisive action. Notably, Daily Record journalist Keith Jackson has publicly criticized Clement’s tactics and team selection, declaring there is “no excuse” for his continued tenure at Ibrox.
This article delves into the growing unrest surrounding Clement’s management, exploring the reasons for Jackson’s scathing comments and what this could mean for the future of Rangers.
Keith Jackson’s Verdict: Why Clement Is Failing
In a fiery analysis on Daily Record’s Hotline Live (13 January), Keith Jackson didn’t hold back. According to him, Philippe Clement lacks the tactical acumen to lead Rangers to consistent victories.
Jackson acknowledged some mitigating factors—such as financial constraints and efforts to rejuvenate the squad—but argued these challenges do not absolve Clement of responsibility. Rangers’ wage bill remains one of the highest in the league, second only to Celtic, making their underperformance even more glaring.
Jackson’s Key Points:
- Clement’s inability to field a winning team despite financial superiority.
- Tactical decisions and team selections that have failed to deliver results.
- Rangers’ declining dominance in domestic football under his leadership.
Jackson’s conclusion was damning: “There is no excuse for having a manager who isn’t capable of finding a team and wiping the floor with everybody else.”
The Current State of Rangers
As of now, Rangers have played 22 games in the Scottish Premiership and trail Celtic by a staggering 15 points. This gap is unacceptable for a club of Rangers’ stature, regardless of financial challenges.
Fans have grown increasingly frustrated, especially during away games where the team’s performances have been particularly lackluster. While the squad has seen some cost-cutting measures, the overall budget still dwarfs that of most rivals in the league.
Key Issues Facing Rangers:
- Lack of tactical clarity.
- Inconsistent team performances.
- Failure to capitalize on financial advantages.
Patrick Stewart’s Stance on Clement
New Rangers CEO Patrick Stewart finds himself in a precarious position. While the pressure to act decisively is mounting, Stewart appears hesitant to make immediate changes. This measured approach may stem from a desire to fully evaluate Clement’s performance before making a long-term decision.
However, this patience could come at a cost. Fan unrest is already brewing, and continued poor results may force Stewart’s hand sooner than expected.
Fan Reactions and Expectations
The frustration among Rangers supporters is palpable. Many believe the club’s legacy and financial investment warrant far better results than what Clement has delivered. Social media is awash with calls for his dismissal, with some fans questioning why the board has not acted already.
What Fans Want:
- A manager who can maximize the potential of the current squad.
- Tactical consistency and better results in domestic competitions.
- A clear vision for the future that aligns with Rangers’ ambitions.
The Road Ahead for Rangers
The question now is whether Rangers will heed Keith Jackson’s advice and part ways with Philippe Clement. While sacking a manager mid-season is never ideal, it may be the only way to salvage the current campaign and restore faith among supporters.
If Clement stays, he must address the following immediately:
- Team Selection: Identifying the best XI and sticking to it.
- Tactical Improvements: Implementing a style of play that leverages Rangers’ strengths.
- Consistency: Delivering results that justify the club’s investment.
Conclusion
Rangers’ current predicament is a stark reminder of how quickly fortunes can change in football. Philippe Clement’s tenure has been riddled with challenges, but excuses are running out. As Keith Jackson aptly put it, “There is no excuse” for the club’s underperformance.
The ball is now in Patrick Stewart’s court. Will he take the bold step of sacking Clement, or will he risk alienating the fanbase by giving him more time? One thing is certain: Rangers cannot afford to let this season slip further away.
Source: Ibrox News
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