'It's crazy...' - Ex-coach hits back at Rangers fans after what they said about Philippe Clement

Rene Desaeyere has defended Philippe Clement from criticism after Rangers’ disappointing 3-0 defeat to Celtic on Sunday (1 September).

Following the defeat, fans greeted the Gers’ players and manager outside Ibrox, voicing their concerns and opinions, with James Tavernier reacting and getting into an argument before getting on the team bus.

Desaeyere, who gave Clement his senior debut at Beerschot, believes the criticism of the Belgian is far too harsh, calling for the fans to give him more of a chance to prove the doubters wrong.

Speaking to The Scottish Sun on Wednesday (4 September), he said: “Philippe loves a challenge and he’ll face this one at Rangers head-on. Do people think he’s going to go away and hide in a corner? No chance.

“Philippe will fight back, don’t worry about that. Nobody should ever underestimate him. Yes, Rangers lost to Celtic and it’s not nice when a derby game against your rivals ends 3-0.

“But I don’t understand this criticism of Philippe. What do the fans expect? It’s crazy. The fans need to realise that they have a very good manager who knows what he is doing.”

Philippe Clement defended after Rangers defeat v Celtic

There is no hiding from the fact that results have not been good enough under Clement, especially since the 2024/25 campaign after being knocked out of Champions League qualification.

Fans have every right to voice their opinions of the manager, especially after losing the Old Firm derby in such poor fashion, and continuing the trend of the Hoops taking a lead at the top of the Scottish Premiership table.

However, it remains to be seen if there are available managers right now who could come into Ibrox and do a better job with the current situation.

The Gers were forced to work to an extremely tight budget during the summer transfer window while their Old Firm rivals were splashing the cash, which was made much easier after the sale of Matt O’Riley for £25million [BBC Sport].

Of course, if the Light Blues are to lift the Scottish Premiership title this season, they must overcome their Old Firm rivals on the pitch, and Clement will have more chances to prove himself.

In other Rangers news, Ally McCoist shared “massive” financial issues at Ibrox live on talkSPORT.

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