Philippe Clement Excited for Ibrox Return Against Dundee in League Cup

Rangers Prepare for Emotional Return to Ibrox Against Dundee

Rangers manager Philippe Clement is gearing up for a highly anticipated return to Ibrox, likening the experience to 'coming home after a long time.' The squad has been playing all their home games at Hampden Park due to renovations of the Copland Stand, a decision that did not sit well with players, management, or the fans.

Context of the Return

The last time Rangers played at Ibrox was on May 14, when they secured a memorable 5-2 victory over Dundee in the Premiership. The upcoming quarter-final tie against Dundee is expected to bring a sense of normalcy back to the club.

Philippe Clement's Enthusiasm

In recent comments, Clement expressed his excitement about returning to Ibrox. "It’s like coming home after a really long time. It felt like we haven't been there for 10 years or something. We're really happy that we can be back there," he stated. The feeling of returning ignites enthusiasm not just in Clement, but in the players and fans as well.

Home Ground Advantage

Clement acknowledged the influence of playing at home: "It's not only here. It's with a lot of clubs in the world. It's the same playing for your fans for sure, at Ibrox, with so many passionate people." This sentiment reflects the universal advantage of a strong home crowd.

Recent Performance and Challenges

Despite a solid 1-0 victory over Dundee United last weekend, Rangers find themselves five points behind rivals Celtic and Aberdeen in the title race. They also missed out on the lucrative Champions League, having been eliminated from the qualifiers. However, they are set to begin their Europa League campaign against Malmo next week.

Rebuilding the Team

While some have suggested the need for a morale boost, Clement dismissed this notion, emphasizing the positives in the team's development. "You start to see the first fruits of the seeds that are planted… we’re just starting with that," he explained.

The Path Forward

Clement emphasized the importance of performances on the pitch despite the excitement of returning home: "The most important thing stays what you do on the pitch, what the players show from the first second of the game." He also highlighted the challenge posed by Dundee, noting their strong physical play and ability to adapt to opponents.

Fan Engagement and Atmosphere

Returning supporters to Ibrox is seen as crucial in fostering a supportive atmosphere. Clement notes how it will allow fans to reconnect with their community in the stands, bringing back memories of past games: "That will be the feeling — like coming home with your family."

Conclusion: A Turning Point for Rangers

The return to Ibrox symbolizes much more than just a physical location for the Rangers. It encapsulates a fresh start, an opportunity for reconnection between the team and its passionate supporters, and a chance to build momentum in a challenging season.

Keywords:

• Rangers Football Club
• Philippe Clement
• Ibrox stadium
• Dundee FC
• Scottish Premiership
• Europa League
• squad rebuilding

Encouragement for Fan Engagement

Fans are encouraged to return to Ibrox and support the team during this crucial quarter-final match against Dundee. The energy and passion of the crowd can significantly influence the players' performance on the field.

Join the Conversation

What are your thoughts on Rangers' prospects this season? How important do you think the return to Ibrox will be? Share your comments below!