Barry Ferguson has called for Rangers to give Philippe Clement time until Christmas to prove his worth at Ibrox amid growing speculation that the Belgian manager is under pressure.
Rangers currently sit third in the Premiership, trailing Celtic and Aberdeen by five points as they headed into the October international break following a 2-0 win over St Johnstone. Despite the victory, fans have begun questioning Clement’s impact, particularly since he took charge almost a year ago. Ferguson, however, believes both the manager and his new signings need more time to show their full potential.
Speaking on The Go Radio Football Show, Ferguson explained: “Last night I was at the game and I’m sure if you listen to Philippe Clement after it, it wasn’t a brilliant performance. I think with the amount of signings that he’s made, we’re in the first week of October, I think you need to give it until Christmas time. You need to allow players time to settle in.”
Ferguson acknowledged the demands placed on Clement but stressed that patience is key, especially given the pressure of managing in Scotland. “I totally get that you don’t get time to settle in the west of Scotland. Could they be better? Yep, the manager has admitted that, but we just need to wait and see what the coming months bring.”
The former Rangers captain also highlighted some positives, including the clean sheet and the performance of Ianis Hagi, despite the midfielder’s red card. “The positive that I look at from last night is another clean sheet domestically. It could have been a lot better… but I am not going to sit here and say everything is rosy in the garden.”
Ferguson concluded by emphasizing the high expectations at the club, stating, “Rangers have to win. I know Derek said he doesn’t fancy them to win anything and I totally get that… But Rangers have to win trophies this season.”