I’m not picking the team- Clement finally confesses

Phil Clement has admitted that it isn’t his decision not to pick Ianis Hagi.

The midfielder was sent on loan to Alaves last season where he made no impact, ruling out any further interest from Spanish clubs in the son of the legendary Gheorghe.

Micky Beale put Ianis on an extended contract soon after taking over at Ibrox with that contract reported to include bonus payments once the Romanian internationalist plays his 100th game.

Now sitting at 99 appearances Clement is following instructions not to select Hagi Jnr with Ibrox fans angry at watching players like Tom Lawrence, Dujon Sterling and Mohamed Diomanse constantly getting over-run and out-played in midfield.

Hagi has become a better player with every match that he has missed but with cash so tight at Ibrox the manager has given in to the money men over his team selection.

What’s the situation with Ianis Hagi?

I said the things already the last times. The situation didn’t change. It’s not only my decision in that way. So we will see what the future will bring here.

Can you see that being a decision that would change? Is the door open?

No, I just said the situation didn’t change for the moment, so there’s no reason to go further into that.

With two years left on his contract Hagi won’t be moving out of Ibrox for less money, it is unlikely that any club will be showing interest in the frozen out midfielder when the January transfer window opens.