Philippe Clement SET season-saving Rangers target by Saturday Jury as Celtic set to become Invincibles again

Philippe Clement Sets Season-Saving Rangers Target by Saturday Jury

The Record Sport team reflects on a big week in Europe and what it could mean for our clubs going forward. Rangers’ 4-1 Europa League win over Nice has given the team a much-needed boost, but can they translate this success to their domestic campaign?

Andy Newport believes that Rangers’ European form is not a guarantee of success in the Premiership. “No-one would be surprised if this side messes up at McDiarmid,” he says. “Clement may argue differently, but there’s little doubt Gers are more at home on the continent facing teams who have a go. It’s against the Premiership’s stuffy battlers that they struggle to break free.”

Fraser Wilson agrees that Rangers’ domestic form has been a concern. “It was another thrilling high in Europe for Clement and his players, but their domestic form has fallen through the floor and shows little sign of picking up. Maybe Igamane’s emergence can give them a jolt.”

Scott Burns emphasizes the importance of Rangers’ next three Premiership fixtures. “They have to win their next three Premiership fixtures against St Johnstone, Kilmarnock, and Ross County. If they don’t, they can write off their league campaign.”

Celtic’s Unbeaten Run

Celtic’s 12-game unbeaten run has sparked speculation about another Invincible season. Andy Newport believes that Celtic’s ability to win even when they’re struggling is a key factor in their success. “It’s down to the rest of the league to match their lofty levels.”

Fraser Wilson agrees that Celtic are streets ahead of the rest. “Yes, I really do. Celtic are streets ahead of the rest, and if they can steer clear of major injuries and manage not to allow complacency to creep in, then there’s nothing to stop them becoming Invincibles again.”

Scott Burns emphasizes the gap between Celtic and the rest of the league. “Aberdeen went 11 games where they had 10 wins and a draw, and Celtic were still ahead of them. I think the gap between Celtic and the rest is massive, and if they continue like they are, then I can’t see them retaining their Premiership crown without a major blemish.”

Lawrence Shankland’s Struggles

Lawrence Shankland’s struggles in front of goal have been a concern for Hearts fans. Andy Newport believes that Shankland needs to sharpen up his stamina to rediscover his scoring touch. “He looks like a man with the weight of the world on his shoulders – and a few extra pounds around his waist.”

Fraser Wilson emphasizes the lack of alternatives for Neil Critchley. “Shankland cut a seriously dejected figure as he left the park on Thursday. The abuse from the stands was way OTT. His confidence looks shot. But who do Hearts bring in if he was to be left out? The lack of a new striker in the summer has left them choosing between 17-year-old James Wilson and untried Musa Drammeh.”

Scott Burns suggests that taking Shankland out of the firing line could reignite his form. “I feel for Shankland. He is trying, but maybe too hard. There is no doubt he will get back scoring goals for fun, but maybe taking him out of the firing line and bringing him off the bench against Aberdeen could reignite him.”

Aberdeen’s Season Begins to Wobble

Aberdeen’s recent form has raised concerns about their season. Andy Newport believes that it was always expected. “It was always to be expected. It’s been a remarkable run under Jimmy Thelin, but the Dons don’t have the squad depth to keep it going. But expect them to bounce back as Thelin’s a boss going places.”

Fraser Wilson agrees that Aberdeen will face a tough test in their next two games. “They were always going to hit a bump, and the big question is how do they react? We’ll have our answer in the next two games against Hearts and Celtic. The Dons are still well-placed to go on and finish second if they react positively.”

Scott Burns emphasizes the importance of Aberdeen’s next game against Hearts. “Tynecastle has been a traditionally difficult venue for the Dons. If they could win there on Sunday, then it could be massive in terms of their season. Teams are now beginning to figure Aberdeen out, but I would still expect them to finish in the top two or three.”