Confirmed: Before the Motherwell game, the Rangers manager gives an update on Cantwell’s return.

After telling Philippe Clement he wanted to quit, Todd Cantwell is still working out apart from the Rangers club and isn’t expected to rejoin them. Despite rumours that he may return after allegedly being pictured at Auchenhowie, the manager of the Gers said in his pregame press conference on August 9 that the Englishman is still not a member of the starting lineup for the game against Motherwell at Hampden Park [Daily Record, 9 August].

Cantwell was allegedly left with the B Team after submitting a transfer request, according to Clement’s prior statement [Sky Sports, July 25]. Trabzonspor’s delegation is apparently getting close to signing him after arriving for negotiations on a private plane [Karadeniz Gazete, August 8]. Regarding transfer progress, Clement stated, “I’m not familiar with that.” He did, however, rule out making a comeback over the weekend, stating: “Yes, he’s training separately because he made it clear that he wanted to go.” I’m working, training, and having fun with the players here that want to do that right now.

Rangers’ departure to Trabzonspor is predicted by Todd Cantwell Cantwell’s involvement with the Light Blues is still possible, according to Clement himself [Daily Record, July 29]. However, it seems unlikely that will occur until the transfer window closes, at which point the Belgian will undoubtedly take a firm stance on only involving players who are totally committed.

According to reports [Scottish Sun, July 22], the former Norwich midfielder is attracting interest from both domestic and international teams in a transfer; but, until the proper offer is made, this won’t signify anything.

By the end of the summer, Cantwell may decide to try again in Glasgow if he still doesn’t have better options, but he’ll probably need to mend fences with the management first.

Given that his transfer business is still unfinished, Clement may not have many options to begin the season, but given that he is starting Scott Wright and using Jefte in attack, it is obvious that he does not see the need to turn to players who are set to leave, like Cantwell and Ianis Hagi, while they are still available.