CEO backs manager Clement despite growing pressure

Rangers’ chief executive has backed manager Philippe Clement despite the club’s struggles to catch runaway leaders Celtic in the Scottish Premiership this season.

Celtic’s victory over Ross County on Saturday extended their lead at the summit of Scottish football to 18 points, although Rangers could bring that down to 15 if they beat St Johnstone at Ibrox on Sunday.

Having won just three of their 11 away matches in the league this term, Clement has come under criticism from supporters, but Rangers CEO Patrick Stewart said the board is sticking by the Belgian.

Clement’s side have, however, fared better in this season’s Europa League, where they currently sit in eighth position, and the 50-year-old manager secured his first Old Firm derby win on 2 January following a 3-0 win against their fierce rivals.

Full-Time: Rangers 3-0 Celtic

💙 Victory for The Famous Glasgow Rangers pic.twitter.com/vQFVW1tpDS

— Rangers Football Club (@RangersFC) January 2, 2025

“I need to make some tough decisions, it comes with the role, but I am committed to making the right ones for Rangers, not just the popular ones,” Stewart said.

“We are backing Philippe at this time as a board. It’s about taking a deeper look at the issues, addressing those problems, and staying focused on building a stronger future for the club. Changing a manager isn’t a silver bullet solution.”

Stewart also revealed there would be a “root and branch review of the entire football department” at Rangers.

The former Manchester United chief executive, who took up his role at Ibrox less than a month ago, said the review, beginning on Monday, would be conducted with external assistance and is set to last between six and 12 weeks.

He also admitted the club will look to add “one or two” players in the January transfer window.