If Hearts lose to Rangers in the Scottish League Cup semifinals, Kenny Miller thinks manager Philippe Clement will be “under pressure” at Ibrox as early as next month.
Rangers’ two-week hunt for a new manager came to an official end on Sunday, October 15, when they announced Clement as Michael Beale’s replacement.
Between now and the next international break in one month, the Gers have seven games left, starting on November 5 at Hampden Park against Hearts.
Before the appointment was formally announced, Miller issued a warning to the incoming manager that if that game, or the one that follows against Aberdeen or Hibernian, goes down, they might feel the heat early in their stay.
BBC Sportsound analyst Miller stated in his Daily Record column on Sunday, October 15, 2015, “The first job at hand is to win league games – by hook or by crook – and then get your hands on that first trophy.”
“It will be expected from the start to defeat Hearts in the semifinal and either Aberdeen or Hibs in the championship game.
He’ll be under pressure if he doesn’t accomplish it. He needs to be prepared for that. That’s about all they have going for them in the title battle.
It’s a long way back, but it’s still salvable. with a notable advancement. Less than that, and it disappears.
Win games
It is harsh to suggest Clement will come under pressure from Rangers fans so early into his rein, but Miller does have a point.
This is already a crucial period in the campaign for the Gers, as they aim to stay in the hunt for three different trophies over the coming weeks.
Nothing will be decided in the Scottish Premiership or Europa League just yet, whereas the cup semi-final with Hearts is very much do-or-die.
Clement would have an easy time winning the Scottish League Cup, since the final is scheduled for one week before Christmas.
If Hearts, Aberdeen, or Hibs lose in the championship game, the head coach will be extremely disappointed.
The objective is straightforward: win games. The first opportunity for fans to see their new manager will be on Saturday, October 21, when Hibs visit the league.
