Philippe Clement’s poor record in Old Firm clashes is becoming a “huge problem” for Rangers, sources have told Football Insider.
The Belgian manager remains winless against Celtic in five attempts, following a 3-0 defeat at Parkhead on Sunday, 1 September.
In stark contrast, former manager Steven Gerrard managed to win eight of his 13 encounters with Celtic, including some high-profile victories.
Clement’s struggles in these crucial derby matches are causing growing concern among Rangers’ hierarchy, although they continue to back the 50-year-old.
Despite the poor start to the season, Football Insider revealed on Monday, 2 September, that Rangers have no immediate plans to part ways with Clement. He is still regarded as the right man to lead the club into the future, having only been appointed in October 2023.
However, there is mounting pressure for Clement to turn around his Old Firm fortunes. Sources indicate that the board will closely scrutinise his position if the team’s performances in these derbies don’t improve, and if they continue to lag behind Celtic in the title race. Rangers currently sit five points adrift of their city rivals after just four Scottish Premiership games.
Adding to the disappointment, Rangers were knocked out of the Champions League by Dynamo Kyiv in the third qualifying round, failing to reach the group stages.
Clement, who signed a new contract last month to keep him at Ibrox until 2028, has won 33 of his 50 games since replacing Michael Beale. However, improving his record against Celtic is now seen as essential if he is to keep Rangers competitive domestically.