Derek Ferguson disagrees with Philippe Clement October comments amid Rangers ‘Godsend’ verdict.
Derek Ferguson disagrees with something Rangers manager Philippe Clement stated about himself in October, believing he has been a “Godsend” to the club.
The Belgian was appointed at Ibrox on October 15 and told the media two days later, “I’m not a magician” (Daily Record, 17 February), expressing his aim for a clean sweep of trophies.
Rangers were seven points behind Celtic in the Scottish Premiership at the time, but a single defeat – against the Bhoys – under Clement since then has resulted in a two-point lead.
In an exclusive interview with Ibrox News, former Rangers player Ferguson called Clement a “Godsend” and admitted that his initial assessment was incorrect.
“And it was a mess, let’s not mince words, it was horrible; you could tell that players weren’t sharp enough, weren’t fit enough, and tactically, I believe guys were confused at times.
“Clement, since he’s come in, he’s streamlined things, he’s got a clear message to the players in terms of tactics, but when you look at them as athletes, they look fitter, sharper.
“I’m not sure why that should be the case. The last manager left us in a bit of a shambles; he’s come in, and he’s really gotten us to where we are right now, which is great.
“To be honest, three or four months ago, I felt it was done and dusted; it’s a shame to admit it, but I had lost hope.
“Thank God for Philippe Clement; he claims not to be a magician, but I believe he is. What I admire about him is his honesty and respect for everyone. He’s been an incredible Godsend to us.”
Can Rangers win the Scottish Premiership under Philippe Clement?
If this question had been asked four months ago, when Clement took over, most people would have laughed, including many Rangers fans, to be honest.
The only person who wasn’t laughing was Clement himself. He had the steely expression of a man who believed he could turn the situation around.
And boy, has he turned things around. Rangers currently have momentum and the lead in the title battle, which is rather impressive given where they were before he signed.
There is still a lot of work to be done if they want to beat Celtic to the trophy, but the fact that they made it a race is noteworthy in and of itself.
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