“Ferguson Warns of Rangers’ Challenges with Ibrox Relocation: Clement’s Crucial Start to the Season”
Barry Ferguson believes that Rangers playing away from Ibrox for the first month of next season could be highly detrimental. In his Daily Record column on June 22, Ferguson stated that as Philippe Clement prepares for his first full season, the temporary relocation is “a huge own goal” for the club.
Due to delayed redevelopments of the Copland Road Stand, the stadium will be unavailable throughout August. This means Rangers must play their opening league matches and two rounds of Champions League qualifiers elsewhere【Stephen McGowan, 22 June】.
Ferguson noted, “Clement will be desperate to see his new-look squad get off to a flying start in the Premiership and carry belief and confidence into the Champions League qualifiers. It was a tough enough task as it was without having to give up home advantage. It’s a huge own goal and one Clement could really do without.”
Rangers can’t afford to be derailed by this Ibrox situation. After their poor end-of-season form last year handed Celtic the Scottish Premiership title, Clement urgently needs a strong start. With Champions League qualification at stake, any faltering in the early weeks could put him under significant pressure. Playing away from Ibrox for an extended period is far from ideal, with potential moves to Hampden Park and even Murrayfield being considered.
Initial reports that Hampden was not an option have been overturned in a recent update, making it preferable for Rangers fans to avoid relocating to a completely different city【Andy Newport, 20 June】.
No matter where they play, Clement’s objectives remain unchanged: begin the new season strongly, secure Champions League qualification, and prevent Celtic from gaining any momentum in a title race that is already expected to be very competitive.
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