Patrick Stewart’s ‘first Rangers move could be sacking Phillipe Clement’
Patrick Stewart’s first action as Rangers’ CEO could be to part ways with Philippe Clement amid growing pressure on the manager’s position.
Speaking on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, former England goalkeeper Paul Robinson explained that Stewart will take charge the day after the Scottish League Cup final against Celtic, and could immediately move to dismiss the boss.
Stewart was confirmed as the club’s new CEO in an official statement on 25 November, and will take over at Ibrox on 16 December.
The manager has faced seemingly constant pressure on his position, although that pressure was eased following their 6-0 thumping of Kilmarnock on 4 December.
However, Rangers remain 11 points behind league-leaders Celtic and four behind second-placed Aberdeen, having won just nine of their opening 14 games.
Now, Robinson has hinted that a heavy cup final defeat will force the board into a big decision.
Rangers could sack Philippe Clement after Celtic defeat
Football Insider revealed on 25 November that Rangers will not rush into a decision on Clement’s future, but remain concerned about their performances so far this season.
Now, Robinson has claimed that Stewart could be forced into a decision if they lose against Celtic, but more clarity on his position will emerge heading into the new year.
“Patrick Stewart is starting as the CEO on the 16th of December,” he told Football Insider.
“That’s the day after the cup final against Celtic – is his first job going to be to sack the manager?
“Who knows what’s going to happen at Rangers.
“When Patrick Stewart comes in, there’ll be a little bit more clarity to his relationship with the manager and that will come to fruition after Christmas and the new year.
“But things have got to change at Rangers, whether that’s outgoing or incoming players.
“That will be on a very tight budget, as we know.”
In other news, Joe Gelhardt wants to quit Leeds amid Rangers interest.
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