CEO supports manager Clement despite increasing pressure
Rangers’ chief executive has backed manager Philippe Clement despite the club struggling to catch leaders Celtic in the Scottish Premiership this season.
Celtic’s victory over Ross County on Saturday extended their lead at the top of Scottish football to 18 points, although Rangers could reduce that to 15 if they beat St Johnstone at Ibrox on Sunday.
After winning just three of his 11 away league games this season, Clement was criticized by fans, but Rangers CEO Patrick Stewart said the board remained loyal to the Belgian.
However, Clement’s side fared better in this year’s Europa League, where they currently sit eighth, and the 50-year-old coach secured his first Old Firm derby win on January 2 after a 3-0 win against the strong rival.
Full time: Rangers 3-0 Celtic
💙 Victory for the famous Glasgow Rangers pic.twitter.com/vQFVW1tpDS
— Rangers Football Club (@RangersFC) January 2, 2025
“I have to make some difficult decisions, that comes with the role, but I am determined to make the right ones for Rangers, not just the popular ones,” Stewart said.
“We are currently supporting Philippe as a board member. It’s about taking a closer look at the issues, addressing them and continuing to focus on building a stronger future for the club. Changing a manager is not a panacea.”
Stewart also revealed there would be a “fundamental review of the entire football department” at Rangers.
The former Manchester United chief executive, who started his job at Ibrox less than a month ago, said the review, which begins on Monday, will be carried out with external support and is expected to last between six and 12 weeks.
He also admitted the club would look to add “one or two” players in the January transfer window.
