The Light Blues conceded two goals from set-pieces during a stop-start second half and now their manager wants more reinforcements.
Philippe Clement has hinted at more imminent Rangers incomings as he stated new signings are “close”.
Rangers secured striker Fabio Silva on loan from English Premier League Wolves earlier this month but a fresh left-back and midfielder are among the positions the Belgian boss is hoping to strengthen before the window shuts. Sam Lammers has also departed the club and Clement appears eager to find replacements in the hope of a strong finish to the domestic season.
Speaking after Rangers’ 2-2 draw with Danish giants Copenhagen at Ibrox, Clement lifted the lid on what fans should expect. Asked if he expected to have more new signings by now, he said: “Yes, everyone is aligned about that. We need a few more in certain positions and everyone who is involved in that is working day and night.
“It’s been really busy with those things but until a signature is set by three parties – the player, us and the other team – then it’s not done. I’m waiting and I’m focused on the players who are here, besides all the talk that we have with other players. That’s my job to do in January and why every manager, when it’s February 1, we’re always very excited.”
Asked if he feels Rangers are getting closer to concluding deals, he added: “I get this question already a few times, but what is closer? As long as there’s not a deal we’re not closer or further away. There are some things close, but it needs to be finished.”
Clement was further probed on the left-back issue. Ridvan Yilmaz impressed in that berth but is expected to depart the club this month. While stalwart Borna Barisic is out of contract in the summer and could head through the exit door over the next few weeks too.
He continued: “We cannot go on in three competitions with one left full-back, that’s clear.”
Rangers face fourth-tier Dumbarton on Saturday in the Scottish Cup fourth round. It’s been two years since they lifted that prestigious trophy and Clement will want to add to the Viaplay Cup success before Christmas. They have also got the Europa League last 16 to look forward in February as well as chasing Celtic down for the Premiership crown.
