Hugh Keevins warns Rangers that Clement could be fired; piranhas could start to circle

Hugh Keevins says that Philippe Clement, the manager of Rangers, could “have the piranhas circling” if his team doesn’t get off to a good start next season.

A reporter for The Daily Record said that the Gers need to make sure they get into the group stages of the Champions League and beat Celtic in the first Old Firm derby so that there are no early questions about their job security.

Clement is in charge of his team’s summer transfers [Daily Record], and Keevins told Clement that he needs to be creative if he wants to build a successful team that can compete with Celtic.

“If they don’t win the Champions League and the first Old Firm derby of next season against Celtic, the piranhas will be circling the manager’s feet before the January transfer window even opens,” Keevins complained.

“Fishes or sink.” Additionally, there are no lifebuoys.

Rangers are going to fire Clement?

Rangers had five chances to beat Celtic last season, but they failed all five times. Four of those losses were in the league, and the last one was a 1-0 loss in the Scottish Cup Final on May 25.

They only won one point, a 3-3 draw at Ibrox in April, after coming back from 2-0 and 3-2 down late in the game. Three of those four losses happened while Clement was in charge.

Philippe Clement has a Rangers record of one draw and three losses in four Old Firm matches

Philippe Clement has played four Old Firm games for Rangers and has one draw and three losses.

The team that Clement rebuilt over the summer might not look much like the one that plays in the first few games of the new season [The Scotsman]. Those games are must-win Champions League qualifiers, so the new team must be good enough to tie Celtic.

Rangers need to improve their record of four wins, a draw, and nine goals scored compared to five goals conceded next season if they want to win the Premiership again.

However, if early signs show that they will be far behind the pace, like they were in the last few games of last season, Clement could be under pressure right from the start.

Ridvan has committed to the Rangers for the future and has ruled out the possibility of a transfer

Rıdvan Yılmaz, a prominent member of the Rangers, has expressed his commitment to the Ibrox club and denied any desire to depart.

Rangers’ new Brazilian recruit, Jeffte, will compete for the left back position this season with the 23-year-old.

Yilmaz has been associated with lucrative departures from Ibrox, and Philippe Clement’s team has also been mentioned as a potential destination for Godoy Cruz’s left-sided defender, Thomas Galdames.

Nevertheless, Yilmaz, who is currently vacationing with his family in the Turkish city of Bursa, has declared that he has no intention of relocating this summer.

Yilmaz stated, “I am currently extremely satisfied with my current situation at Rangers and have no intention of considering any future transfers.”

“I am enjoying my break with my family here and I will return to Scotland in time for the pre-season training camp soon.”

Yilmaz relocated to Glasgow from Besiktas two years ago and has appeared in 32 matches for Rangers across all competitions this season.

However, he was not included in Turkey’s Euro 2024 squad and will not be able to add to his seven appearances for the nation.

Rangers’ Robby McCrorie’s asking price is among the goalkeeping targets that Aberdeen supporters have expressed their opinions on

The Red Army has been reacting in large numbers as news of Rangers’ price tag for Aberdeen-linked goaltender Robby McCrorie emerged on Wednesday.

Many Aberdeen supporters have expressed their opposition to the notion of their club paying Rangers’ reported asking price for custodian Robby McCrorie. The following is their response.

It was revealed on Wednesday that the Ibrox club is seeking £500,000 in addition to add-ons for McCrorie, who is 26 years old. McCrorie has one year remaining on his contract and is believed to have declined an extended Gers contract due to his desire to secure consistent game time elsewhere.

McCrorie, a graduate of the Govan side’s development academy, has only made five top-flight appearances with the Rangers first-team over the course of eight years. He has also made 24 Premiership outings in two seasons on loan at Livingston.

Aberdeen is in search of a new No. 1 this summer, as Dutchman Kelle Roos is expected to depart.

McCrorie and Serbian shotstopper Stojan Lekovic from FK Radnicki Kragujeva have been associated with irrevocable switches.

It is believed that Jimmy Thelin, the new manager of the Dons, is interested in securing a loan for Icelandic custodian Hakon Valdimarsson, who was previously employed by Elfsborg and is currently playing for Brentford in the English Premier League.

Hakon Rafn Valdimarsson of Iceland and Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal are in action during a Euro 2024 qualifier. Image: Shutterstock

It is evident that a significant number of the Red Army would prefer their club to pursue alternative candidates to cover the goalkeeping vacancy, as Rangers has imposed a price tag of over half a million pounds on McCrorie, the twin brother of former Dons midfielder/right-back Ross McCrorie.

McCrorie has not participated in an adequate amount of first-team football.

The substantial fee that the Gers are demanding in comparison to the number of games played by McCrorie, who has been surpassed by numerous keepers in the Ibrox pecking order over the years, was a point of contention for many supporters.

Denis Morrison stated, “He has impeded his career by refraining from playing.”

“Select a keeper who is younger and has more potential, or a keeper of a similar age who has played regular football.”

Rangers’ Robby McCrorie saves a shot at goal from Aberdeen’s Luis Lopes at the end of the 2022/23 season. Image: SNS.

“It may be worth a risk if we can negotiate a lower price for him; however, we can allocate £500,000 more prudently.”

Clark Gillies commented, “Three to four years ago, I would have torn their arms off to acquire him for that amount. However, he is not 22 or 23 years old, as the majority of individuals appear to believe, and he has squandered what would have been his most promising years by warming the bench. The maximum amount is £250,000.”

Other Red Army members believe that there are superior alternatives available, which offer superior value, whether it is Valdimarsson or a hidden jewel discovered by the Dons’ Continent-scouring recruitment team.

“Not good enough for our number one and has not played in enough competitive first-team football,” stated Stuart Paterson. We should opt for the Icelandic loon instead.

Dean Nismo responded, “No, we can obtain a significantly greater quality of value by purchasing a product from Europe that has greater potential.”

“He is 26 years old; there is little to no hope for improvement.”

Nevertheless, Wandering Scotty is conflicted, as he expressed his disgust at the fact that he has participated in so few games: “I hate that he has played so few games.”

“However, he may be eligible for the Scotland squad if he is granted a consistent playing opportunity.”

“The price of £500,000 for a potential Scottish internationalist is reasonably priced.”

‘If McCrorie remains with the Dons for a decade and is selected for the Scotland international team, the £500,000 investment will be justified.’

However, there are other supporters who are of the opinion that Aberdeen’s investment in McCrorie could be worthwhile in the long term.

Baz stated, “Why would he accept 500,000 when he could be the top earner for a decade?” It is an obvious choice.

Windy further stated, “It is contingent upon one’s perspective: he is not currently valued at 500k; however, if AFC is of the opinion that he can serve as our custodian for the next decade and potentially develop into an international player, then it is an investment that is a no-brainer.”

Jay Moir stated, “I genuinely believe that £500,000 could be a bargain after a few years of being a no. 1 player, as much as it’s Rangers.”

“I believed he was very good every time he had a chance to play against the Rangers.”

I would prefer to consume wastewater water than to provide the Rangers with money.

However, certain supporters are unwilling to tolerate Aberdeen’s payment to secure signed players from their formidable rivals, Rangers.

Niall stated, “We should never provide them with money.”

Additionally, Mubs stated, “I would not attempt to separate anyone from them.” There are superior carers available for that amount of money.

@ScottyC1314 stated, “I would rather consume sewer water than provide them with any money.”

The unexpected Rangers connection that resulted in a former Ibrox fan favourite making a significant change

During an international friendly, Bosnia-Herzegovina’s defender Nikola Katic defends against England’s striker Harry Kane.

The Bosnia and Herzegovina team sheet against England at St James’ Park on Monday night featured a well-known name.

Nikola Katic, a former fan favourite of the Rangers, has disclosed that a visit from an Ibrox cult figure convinced him to switch his international allegiance from Croatia to Bosnia and Herzegovina.

In a Euro 2024 warm-up match at St James’ Park on Monday night, the central defender, who is a member of Swiss club FC Zurich, achieved his international aspirations by making his surprise national team debut for the Balkan nation against Gareth Southgate’s England.

Katic played 90 minutes of competitive action for the country of his birth, where his parents continue to reside, despite suffering a 3-0 defeat in the North East after a goalless first half.

In May 2017, the 27-year-old revealed that his decision to transfer countries was significantly influenced by an old Gers connection, as he earned a single cap for Croatia during a friendly match against Mexico, alongside his former Light Blues teammate Borna Barisic.

He has previously admitted to hitchhiking each day for 100 kilometres across the boundary between Croatia and Bosnia in order to pursue his football aspirations. And it was Sasa Papac’s intervention, who is now an international recruiter in his homeland, that persuaded Katic that there was no turning back.

He stated, “BiH is the country in which I was born, where my parents currently reside, and where I intend to reside upon the completion of my professional career.” This is the strategy. I was initially impressed by the professionalism of Mr. Emir Spahić’s initial call. Emir arrived at my residence, and the selector and Saša Papac subsequently travelled to Zurich by plane.

“Nino Milenkovic contacted me on numerous occasions, inquiring and providing clarification.” This demonstrated to me that the coaching staff is placing a high value on my performance and that I have the capacity to alter my sportsmanship and relocate to this location. After concluding my football career, I refrained from returning for approximately two months. I aspire to attend each and every national team gathering.

Katic appeared in 59 games for Rangers over the course of two seasons. However, his progression was significantly impeded by a severe knee injury sustained during the preseason, which ultimately resulted in his departure. Before signing a three-year contract with Zurich in the summer of 2022, he spent a season on loan at Hajduk Split, where he was a member of Steven Gerrard’s 2020/21 title-winning squad.

Englishman Ridvan Yilmaz bids farewell to Rangers with a four-word message

Ridvan Yilmaz has sent a four-word message to his colleague John Lundstram in response to his “goodbye” post to Rangers fans on social media.

Lundstram has been a steadfast member of the Glasgow-based team since his arrival at the Ibrox three years ago.

It was a significant gamble to depart from Sheffield United, a Premier League team at the time. Nevertheless, he has cherished every moment of representing the club, as he explained in his farewell message on Instagram.

Many of his teammates have reached out to the outgoing midfielder to express their appreciation for his tenure at the club, as his departure has been officially confirmed.

Yilmaz included a brief comment in one of the messages, which read: “All the best, lad.”

What is possible for John Lundstram in the future?

The 30-year-old has been an exceptional performer for the club since his arrival at the Ibrox three years ago, as previously mentioned.

Throughout his tenure in Glasgow, the midfielder has contributed 20 goals and made a total of 153 appearances in all competitions for Rangers.

Despite the fact that the move was questioned by many at the time, as Lundstram was arguably at the zenith of his career, it has turned out for the best.

After Steven Gerrard returned the Scottish Premiership to Rangers, he joined the team. However, he ultimately slipped down the pecking order after the Liverpool legend was dismissed.

Nevertheless, he was able to reintegrate into the starting lineup and played a critical role in Rangers’ unexpected run to the Europa League final.

Rangers are the team for which he has played the most throughout his career, despite having played for numerous English clubs.

Additionally, the Daily Record reports that Lundstram’s subsequent career advancement will occur in Turkey.

The midfielder, who was born in Liverpool, is expected to announce his transfer to Trabzonspor in the near future. This move could potentially be the midfielder’s final destination in his professional career.

Amidst shocking injury allegations, an ex-Rangers player was observed returning to the pitch mere days after being released by Ibrox.

Ryan Jack’s objectives for Rangers have frequently been at odds with his Scotland career.

Although it is understandable that the former Aberdeen captain desires success with his country, the rehabilitation of his calf issues has been adversely affected by his dual commitments.

Ryan Jack was one of five players discharged by the Rangers this week at the conclusion of their contracts, following an eight-year tenure.

However, the Rangers supporters will be surprised by the player’s most recent appearance for Scotland, given Steve Clarke’s remarks regarding the player’s fitness.

Jack establishes his claim to Scotland.

Ryan Jack was unexpectedly summoned to Scotland’s preliminary Euro 2024 squad.

The decision was made prior to Rangers’ announcement that the 32-year-old’s contract at Ibrox would not be renewed this summer.

This comes after years of frustrating injury issues for the popular midfielder, who gained a position in the Scotland squad as a result of his development under Steven Gerrard.

However, in the midst of club versus country rivalries, both Rangers and Scotland have been adversely affected by the absence of Ryan Jack, who brings a unique perspective to each team.

Now, Rangers fans will observe Jack coming off the bench for Scotland in the 2-0 victory over Gibraltar, despite the fact that he spent the majority of the season in rehabilitation.

In the 73rd minute of the match, the midfielder replaced Billy Gilmour in order to communicate his intentions regarding a flight to Germany.

The midfielder’s injury remains a topic of concern for the Rangers.

The situation raises some serious concerns about Rangers’ handling of injuries in their first-team last season, despite the fact that no one will begrudge Ryan Jack receiving minutes for Scotland.

It follows Scotland manager Steve Clarke’s assertion that the midfielder was fully fit during the concluding weeks of the campaign.

Upon announcing his Euro 2024 squad in late May, Clarke stated to the press, “Ryan has been a critical component of the squad during my tenure as head coach.”

“He was unable to attend the most recent Euros.” He has not had the most successful season finale for the Rangers. However, he has been in good health for the past two to three weeks.

“He is entitled to be present.” He is a midfielder who is somewhat unique.

In the past two campaigns, the Rangers’ squad has been decimated by injuries, and the players’ conditioning, athleticism, and robustness have not been at the elite level that is necessary.

In a nutshell, we are unable to sustain the demands of a competitive season at Ibrox without experiencing any injuries.

Ryan Jack has encountered difficulties since approximately 2018, and Rangers have been unable to ensure that the midfielder is available on a consistent basis in order to have a significant impact on the team.

The Scotland hero was compelled to be released, in addition to his fellow crock, Kemar Roofe.

However, given the dire circumstances of our injury predicament this season, why was Ryan Jack not deemed fit by Rangers if he was deemed fit by Scotland?

Jack appeared in 22 matches for Rangers last season, 12 of which were starts. He did not strike a domestic ball for the club after playing 70 minutes against Ayr in the Scottish Cup in February.

Jack, a Scotland midfielder, appeared for the final time for Rangers in the 2-2 draw with Benfica in Portugal a few days later. He came off the bench and played 13 minutes.

Jack played his first professional minutes in nearly four months during the Scotland match against Gibraltar.

Given the complete and utter catastrophe we experienced in the final weeks of the season, it is entirely reasonable to question why such a significant player was compelled to remain in the stands.

The cost of the new SPFL TV deal is disclosed, as the expense for fans to watch Rangers increases once more

Rangers will continue to face an uphill battle in Europe and will be required to work harder than most to generate revenue as a result of the SPFL’s subpar television agreements.

To provide context, the teams that are relegated from the Premier League in England could lose every game and still generate over five times the combined revenue of all Scottish clubs.

Nils Koppen and Philippe Clement will be required to exert even greater effort in order to ensure that Rangers receives a fair price, as the expenses for supporters continue to escalate as a result of the decisions made by the Scottish authorities.

Photo by Matthew Ashton – AMA/Getty Images

The SPFL has once again requested that Rangers supporters cough up.

Scottish football supporters have been dealt another blow as a result of the recent announcement of a new television agreement, which will result in an additional 20 games being broadcast on Premier Sports.

The agreement is rumored to be in the eight-figure range, which could result in each club receiving a “whopping” £166,000 annually. This sum is equivalent to Cyriel Dessers’ salary for five months, with some variation.

📺 @PremSportsTV will show 20 live top flight matches each season for the next five years.

2024/25 will see the highest number of live matches ever broadcast from the Scottish Premiership.

Discover more ➡️ https://t.co/fdwDwaIf8D pic.twitter.com/44Co51uVut

— SPFL (@spfl) June 5, 2024

It is yet another reminder of Barry Hearn’s criticism of the SPFL and SFA for their management of the game in Scotland a decade ago:

“You would be terminated if you were employed by me.” You possess a plethora of positive attributes in Scottish football; however, you fail to market yourself.

“You are not sufficiently self-sufficient.” I am observing an excessive amount of self-pity.

“You have been cast in the shadow of the English Premier League and, to be frank, you have nearly given up.”

“That is a bit harsh and a generalization, but if you do not have faith in yourself, how can anyone else have faith in you?”

Supremo of boxing, darts, and snooker is correct.

In comparison to Scandinavian countries, Scottish organizations are underserved by their primary Sky Sports contract.

A fan of an English team that is currently competing in Europe is currently paying a lower price to witness their team than Rangers.

In the event that it is not feasible to visit Ibrox on a regular basis, the cost of observing Rangers in every domestic and continental tournament will now be approximately £96 per month.

Rangers will be accessible to fans via a combination of Sky Sports, TNT Sports, Amazon Prime, and Premier Sports for the next five years.

ProviderCostSky Sports £46TNT Sports is priced at £30.99.Premier Sports is priced at £9.99.Amazon Prime is priced at £8.99.

A decade ago, the time for change had arrived.

Despite Rangers’ success in all domestic competitions, they will not generate as much revenue from television contracts as they would from a reasonable Europa League campaign.

Neil Doncaster has not negotiated a more cost-effective option with any of the broadcasters or an SPFL TV package between the providers, which is indicative of the approach he will always take in negotiations.

In 2014, Hearn delivered his speech without a title sponsor for the Scottish Professional Football League (SPFL). Subsequently, the Scottish Cup, league cup, and league have all been devoid of sponsors.

Nevertheless, Doncaster continues to hold his position.

Rangers attempted to effect change in the manner in which the game was conducted in Scotland, and even the absurdity of the cinch circumstance was insufficient to secure Doncaster’s P45.

Barry Hearn’s speech remains as precise as it was a decade ago, and nothing has changed.

Doing the same thing consistently will result in the same outcome.