Steve Cooper in running to replace Clement at Rangers: Four frontrunners named
Steve Cooper is one of four managers in the running to replace Philippe Clement should he lose his job at Rangers, sources have told Football Insider.
Speaking on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, senior correspondent Pete O’Rourke revealed that the former Leicester City boss sees the position as an attractive opportunity despite the off-field issues.
Kilmarnock’s Derek McInnes is also said to be interested in the job, while Kevin Muscat continues to be heavily linked despite missing out when Clement was appointed.
Former Southampton manager Russell Martin is also a contender, although there are suggestions he would prefer to stay in England.
The pressure on Clement’s job at Ibrox comes after a difficult festive period in which they lost to St Mirren and drew with Motherwell in back-to-back games.
However, after a stunning 3-0 victory against Celtic – Clement’s first as Rangers boss – the Belgian is expected to remain in the role as retains the support of the board.
Despite that support, though, alternative options remain interested in the potential vacancy if things turn sour amid growing frustrations from the fans in Glasgow.
Steve Cooper eyes Rangers job amid Philippe Clement sack pressure
Rangers have endured a turbulent season so far and remain 11 points behind their Old Firm rivals despite their huge victory on 2 January.
This has led to a hostile atmosphere around the club, with supporters beginning to call for the manager’s head while also putting pressure on the board to make a decision.
The Ibrox side have lost four and drawn three of their 19 league games so far this season, but Clement will now be hoping to turn things around after closing the gap to Celtic.
He is expected to receive the backing of the board during the January transfer window in a bid to improve their current situation – although extensive funds are unlikely to be available.
It would take an extreme twist of fates for Celtic to lose the title race from this position, but Rangers remain determined to keep the pressure on and close the gap should their rivals slip.
In other news, Rangers have agreed a new £20m+ deal.
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