Former England striker Jermain Defoe has expressed concern over the current performance of Rangers, emphasizing that it has been challenging for fans and former players alike to watch the team struggle under manager Philippe Clement.
As Rangers sit five points behind their rivals Celtic and Aberdeen in the Scottish Premiership, the team prepares for a crucial match against Kilmarnock at Rugby Park—a venue where they have historically faced difficulties. Defoe noted that any further slip-ups could jeopardize their title hopes this season.
“If you speak to any Rangers fan or ex-players, and if we’re being totally honest, it’s been hard watching it,” Defoe told Gambling.com. Reflecting on his own experiences, he recalled, “We won the league when I had the player-coach role, and then after I left, the boys came so close to winning the Europa League.”
He added, “I looked at it and thought they would kick on the next season, if they kept the core of good young players and experience, and possibly add a few more. But it’s actually gone the other way, and it has been tough to watch.”
Defoe emphasized the need for improvement: “I feel like it’s obvious that something needs to change. The players need to try and find their form. They need to find some sort of consistency.” He pointed out that last season, Rangers dropped points in matches they were expected to win, highlighting the importance of approaching every game with the right mindset.
Reflecting on his time at the club, Defoe cherished his three years in Glasgow, particularly the memory of winning the title during the pandemic, calling it his “undoubted best memory.”