Patrick Stewart has offered his support to Philippe Clement since taking over as Rangers CEO, but only for now.
Many expected that the humiliating loss to lower-league Queen’s Park might change that, as frustration grows among Rangers fans following another disappointing result in an already troubling season.
Despite the mounting pressure, Clement has no intention of stepping down and insists he will win back the fans’ support by delivering victories. However, until results improve, speculation about his future will persist.
For now, it’s being reported as “business as usual” at Ibrox, though a comprehensive review of the football department is currently underway.
Stewart, still in the early days of his role, has stated that the club is giving Clement time to make progress.
“There’s been a lot of discussion about results and the manager, and I understand the scrutiny on Fraser [Thornton] and me, particularly on me,” Stewart said. “That comes with the job, and I’m prepared for it.
“I have to make tough decisions—ones that are right for Rangers, not just popular ones. To be clear, the board is backing Philippe for now.
“Constant managerial changes don’t work at many clubs. What I need to do, with the board’s support, is identify and address the deeper issues affecting the club.
“Some supporters are calling for a managerial change, but others recognize that this goes beyond just the manager. This club has been underperforming for years, and there are deeper-rooted problems that need to be addressed. That’s where our focus should be—looking beneath the surface.”
As for Clement, he dismissed any suggestion that he might resign following the Queen’s Park defeat.
“Not at all,” he said when asked about stepping down.
“We’ve spent months working on rebuilding, and just a few weeks ago, people were recognizing the progress.
“Making decisions based purely on emotion and upheaving everything isn’t what this club needs.
“I understand the fans’ emotions. I know many were supporting me just three hours ago. Now, they’re frustrated—I get that because I feel the same way.
“This loss hurts. It was one of our biggest objectives and our best shot at winning a trophy this season. The players knew that, and it likely contributed to their nervousness in the second half. They wanted it badly because they understand how much it means to the club.”
Nervous is not an excuse for highly paid professionals perhaps it’s the manager’s negative view always making excuses for failure that’s the problem