Rangers approached their clash with Tottenham Hotspur with the respect befitting a Premier League side, yet Philippe Clement offered the clearest glimpse yet of the style he wants his team to adopt.
The manager showed courage in his team selection, choosing a starting XI that reflected both ambition and the need to rest key players ahead of Sunday’s Old Firm Premier Sports Cup final.
The rotation allowed Clement to manage resources effectively, but the sight of John Souttar limping off in the first half was an unwelcome setback.
Rangers sweat on John Souttar’s fitness
Souttar, arguably enjoying the best form of his career, has been instrumental for Rangers in recent weeks.
His commanding displays for Scotland during the last international break translated seamlessly into his club performances.
Against Spurs, he was a steadying presence in a defence tasked with handling a potent attacking quartet of Timo Werner, James Maddison, Brennan Johnson, and Heung-min Son.
Despite the quality of the opposition, Rangers largely kept Jack Butland untroubled, the goalkeeper rarely called into action as the backline stood firm.
However, Souttar’s early departure, caused by what appeared to be a groin injury after playing a simple pass, will concern Clement.
Speaking to Emma Dodds on TNT Sports, Clement provided an update on the situation:
“I don’t know for the moment, but it’s never a great moment when you have to step off the pitch in the first half.
“We will know more in a couple of days, but for now, I don’t have a clue.”
How Souttar’s absence could impact Rangers
Clement has options in defence, but the reliance on Leon Balogun and Robin Propper presents a potential headache.
Both players performed admirably after Souttar’s withdrawal, limiting Spurs to speculative chances, but their availability cannot be guaranteed given their history of injuries and match substitutions this season.
Neraysho Kasanwirjo and Dujon Sterling offer further cover, but neither is a natural replacement for Souttar in terms of consistency or experience.
Adding to the concern is the absence of Clinton Nsiala. The summer signing from AC Milan was expected to be a significant addition to the squad but has yet to make an impact or feature prominently.
The timing of Souttar’s injury couldn’t be worse. Rangers now face a short turnaround to the next defining moment of their season, the Old Firm final.
Whether or not Souttar recovers in time, another resilient defensive display will be required if Rangers are to bring the silverware back to Ibrox.
Clement’s tactical bravery will again be tested, but this weekend’s outcome could set the tone for the rest of his tenure.