Philippe Clement Excited for Rangers' Ibrox Return Against Dundee

Rangers Manager Philippe Clement Expresses Excitement Over Return to Ibrox

Rangers' manager, Philippe Clement, has conveyed an overwhelming sense of anticipation regarding the team's return to Ibrox for a League Cup match against Dundee. This eagerly awaited game signifies not just a sporting event but feels like the culmination of a tedious 10-year hiatus.

Delays and Challenges at Hampden Park

The Rangers have faced significant challenges this season, primarily due to the delayed refurbishment of the Copland Stand. This situation forced them to host all home games at Hampden Park, a move that did not resonate well with players, management, and fans alike.

Rangers last played at Ibrox on May 14, where they claimed a decisive 5-2 victory over Dundee in a Premiership match. Clement is now relishing the opportunity to restore normalcy with the upcoming quarter-final tie against Dundee, despite the fact that the Copland Stand will only be partially opened.

Philippe Clement's Thoughts on the Homecoming

Describing the atmosphere as buzzing, Clement remarked, "You feel it in the building. I know it's the same with all the players. It gives something extra, and I think it will be the same with all the fans also. It's like coming home after a really long time. It's not that long, but we have that feeling, so we're really happy that we can be back there."

Positive Vibes Amidst Title Race Challenges

Despite securing a solid 1-0 victory over Dundee United last weekend, Rangers find themselves five points adrift of Celtic and Aberdeen in the title race. Moreover, the club faced disappointment after being eliminated from the Champions League qualifiers and is now set to kick off their Europa League campaign against Malmo in Sweden next Thursday.

Rebuilding and Looking Ahead

Contrary to assumptions that the club might require a morale boost, Clement defended the team's current state, stating, "It's quite a negative question... You see we're rebuilding the squad, new players coming in. There are a lot of positives here." He expressed confidence in the growth and development of the squad, aiming for consistent improvement week by week.

Importance of Home Advantage

Clement acknowledged the vital role of home support, emphasizing how playing at Ibrox can enhance player performance and create a memorable experience for fans. "It's like coming home with your family. That will be the feeling," he added while acknowledging the competitiveness of Dundee, highlighting their physical style of play and effective transitions.

Preparation for a Tough Match

As Rangers prepare to host Dundee, Clement reminded everyone of the importance of delivering strong performances on the pitch. He concluded, "The most important thing stays what you do on the pitch, what the players show from the first second of the game."

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