By Ryan Niven

Philippe Clement takes his Rangers side to France on Thursday night taking on Nice in the Europa League. This much needed break from league action could see him earn the chance of extra time in the Ibrox dugout.

When Philippe Clement took over in October 2023 the excitement inside Ibrox was palpable. A dismal spell with Michael Beale at the helm had ended and fans looked forward to the future. Fast forward just over a year later and the optimism and excitement surrounding his appointment has faded and calls for his head have begun.

Despite an encouraging start to his tenure. Sixteen games unbeaten what has unfolded since is miles away from Rangers standards. Choking the league despite it being in their hands as well as a Scottish Cup final defeat to rivals Celtic the summer was always going to be massive.

An underwhelming transfer window unfolded with signings that failed to excite the fans and key players such as Connor Goldson and Todd Cantwell departing. It is clear to the outside world that Rangers had entered a rebuild stage and with a new contract till 2028 for Clement the project was his to run.

Rangers have endured a shocking start to the season. Out of the Champions League and 11 points behind leaders Celtic. Boos have rung from the stands. As Rangers falter week after week with performance levels well below par after defeats to Kilmarnock and Aberdeen. As well as stumbling to a draw against Dundee United the calls for Clement to be relived of his duties have risen.

Domestic Form

Similar to Giovanni Van Bronckhorst’s time in charge European football has been a happy escape from their domestic form. Bar a 4-1 battering off Lyon performance levels in Europe have been night and day from their troubles back home. A trip to France could be the catalyst for Rangers to step up and be counted. Rangers travel to face Nice on Thursday night on match day five of the Europa League.

Promising performances against Malmo, Olympiacos and FSCB have provided confidence that this Rangers team are capable of playing exciting football. With pressure growing on the Belgian defeat here could end his spell as Rangers 19th permanent manager.

It will be an interesting watch to see if the players show fight for their manager. It still remains to see whether Clement will be Rangers manager come Friday morning or whether the hierarchy will wield the axe.