Sport nationRangers’ Interim Chairman, John Gilligan, Backs Manager Philippe Clement
Rangers’ interim chairman, John Gilligan, has made it clear that the club will stand by manager Philippe Clement, even if results don’t go their way. In an exclusive interview with Sky Sports News, Gilligan emphasized that Clement has the full support of the club and will not be sacked.
Gilligan believes that Clement is the right man to lead the team, citing the exciting young players he’s brought in and his efforts to improve the trading model. He’s also confident that Rangers can catch up with Celtic, their Old Firm rivals, and Aberdeen, who are currently five points ahead.
“We have to take one step at a time, but ultimately we have to win the league,” Gilligan said. “Yes, definitely, we can challenge Celtic because of the manager and the players we’ve brought in. The fact is we’re a strong team, and week to week, we’re playing games that we should win and can win.”
Gilligan acknowledged that patience is not a virtue often associated with football supporters, but he urged fans to trust the process. “It’s been difficult for the manager, and it would be silly to think otherwise. Putting my supporter’s hat on, the word ‘patience’ is not something football supporters are very good at, but I would ask the fans to be patient.”
Clement has made significant changes since his arrival, and Gilligan is impressed with the progress. “The manager has brought in some good, exciting young players. He’s trying to take the age of the squad down, trying to get the trading model correct, and I think this is the moment where we hopefully back the manager.”
To boost their chances, Gilligan has confirmed that transfer funds will be available in January, without requiring Clement to sell players. The club is focused on bringing stability to the player trading model and making smart investments to improve the team.
“We’re trying to bring stability to the player trading model to try to improve it, and I think the manager we’ve got is the man to do that,” Gilligan explained. “There will be money for Clement to spend in January. With any manager at any football club, if you can sell and make a profit, then it helps with the buying.”
Gilligan also addressed the club’s financial sustainability, reassuring fans that the accounts will show a solid foundation. “We’ll have accounts coming out quite soon, and at the AGM, it will become apparent that the financial sustainability is solid.”
The search for a new CEO is also underway, with Gilligan working closely with experienced businessman George Letham. The goal is to have someone in place by Christmas.
“The big thing is the CEO, and recruiting one as soon as possible,” Gilligan said. “We have a number of people who are around the opportunity, but we want to bring in a recruitment company to make sure we don’t miss anybody.”
Gilligan responded to criticism from former chairman Dave King, describing it as “unrealistic.” He emphasized that the board has made it clear there is no appetite for new directors, and calling an EGM would serve no purpose.
“I haven’t spoken to Dave personally, but Dave and I go way back, and he gave me one of the happiest days of my life when we took the club back,” Gilligan said. “I’ll always be grateful for that, and I look forward to seeing him sometime in the future.”
Gilligan’s message to Rangers fans is one of reassurance, emphasizing the club’s solid foundation, the manager’s capabilities, and the fans’ unwavering loyalty. He acknowledges the challenges ahead but is optimistic about the team’s potential.
“I don’t think we need to say much, other than there are big issues, there are challenges,” Gilligan said. “We’re chasing to get the league back. Their support is never in doubt, and they deserve the respect. I’m trying to be upfront and honest with them to say: a solid foundation, the manager is here, the trading model will come good, and we’re so grateful for the fact their loyalty is never in doubt.”
As Rangers looks to the future, Gilligan’s commitment to Clement and the team’s success is clear. With transfer funds available and a new CEO on the horizon, the club is poised to make a strong push for the league title.
Gilligan’s leadership and vision will be crucial in navigating the challenges ahead, and Rangers fans will be watching with interest as the season unfolds. With the right support and resources, Clement and his team can deliver the success that Rangers fans crave.
The coming months will be crucial in determining Rangers’ fate, but with Gilligan at the helm, the club is in good hands. His dedication to the team and its fans is unwavering, and his message of reassurance will resonate with supporters everywhere.
Sport nation
