Philippe Clement Hails Rangers Players for Reaction After Defeat Against Celtic

Strategic Insights -

Rangers manager Philippe Clement praised his players for their reaction to a difficult Old Firm defeat, securing a 1-0 victory over Dundee United and closing the gap on the league leaders to five points. Clement expressed appreciation for the players' resilience after being forced to stew on the 3-0 reverse at Celtic Park over the international break. The win came just 24 hours after the resignation of chairman John Bennett, who was diagnosed by his doctor and will not be completely out of the picture.

Key Takeaways:

  • Clement praised the players for their reaction to the Old Firm defeat, stating it was the only reaction he demands and expects.
  • The win over Dundee United closed the gap on the league leaders back to five points, easing some of the pressure on the side.
  • Clement revealed that chairman John Bennett's decision to step down was made for him by his doctor, and the manager wishes him a speedy recovery.
  • Clement hinted that the chief executive position might be filled in the coming week, citing the possibility of new changes within the club.
  • Rangers signed £3.4m deadline-day signing Nedim Bajrami and handed him a debut as a pre-planned half-time substitution, showing faith in his abilities.
  • Hamza Igamane made his second appearance for Rangers after coming on for his long-awaited debut against Celtic, with Clement expressing optimism about his potential.
  • Dundee United boss Jim Goodwin criticized his side's slow start to the game, which allowed Rangers to waltz through unchallenged and score the winning goal.

Statistics:

  • Rangers closed the gap on the league leaders to five points with the win over Dundee United.
  • The victory came just 24 hours after the resignation of chairman John Bennett, who was diagnosed by his doctor.
  • Rangers have signed a £3.4m quota for deadline-day signing Nedim Bajrami.
  • Hamza Igamane made his second appearance for Rangers after coming on for his long-awaited debut against Celtic.
  • Dundee United boss Jim Goodwin expressed disappointment with his side's slow start to the game, which led to the loss.

Sources:

  • Philippe Clement, Rangers manager, speaking to the press after the match
  • Jim Goodwin, Dundee United boss, speaking to the press after the match