Brakes put on the Philippe Clement Ibrox Express

The Ibrox Communications Machine is attempting to apply the brakes on expectations that Philippe Clement is poised to slip into a blazer and brogues.

During the day momentum has been building towards the 49-year-old taking over as manager mainly based on reports coming out of Saudi Arabia that he has turned down an offer to take charge of Saudi side Al-Shabab.

Clement has been out of work since getting the sack from Monaco in June after a sixth place finish in Ligue 1, Monaco are currently in top spot under new boss Adi Hutter.

Faced with the prospect of Frank Lampard, Derek McInnes or Ange’s understudy in Kevin Muscat the verdict from Ibrox social media has swung towards Clement with James Bisgrove and John Bennett wary of upsetting the online bears with their next appointment.

With 10 days to go until the clash with Hibs in the SPFL the next manager needs as much time as possible to work with the squad but The Sun is warning not to expect an overnight announcement:

RANGERS have yet to make a final decision on their next manager.

Philippe Clement has become the odds-on favourite to take over at Ibrox with reports claiming the Belgian is to be offered the post imminently.

However, sources close to the club say that NO final decision has been made on who will be Michael Beale’s permanent replacement.

Ibrox sources also confirmed that talks remain ongoing with candidates.

There had also been some reports that Clement could be arriving in Glasgow tonight ahead of becoming the next Rangers boss.

However, sources say the 49-year old will NOT be jetting in this evening.

If Clement and Kevin Muscat knock the job back it looks like Steve Davis and Alex Rae will continue in charge with McInnes, Billy Davies or David Martindale the other options.

Philippe Clement will not be arriving in Glasgow tonight. Rangers have not made a final decision on any candidate and talks are ongoing.

— Chris Jack (@Chris_Jack89) October 10, 2023