Rangers Football Club has made a modest start to the January transfer window, with defender Rafael Fernandes being the only new addition thus far. The player has joined on loan from Lille until the end of the season, and the club retains an option to make the move permanent come summer. Manager Philippe Clement expressed his hope of bolstering the squad with further signings before the transfer deadline, emphasizing the necessity for improvements in certain positions.
Clement's comments came during an interview with Sky Sports News ahead of Sunday's home match against Ross County. He acknowledged the importance of strengthening the team after Rangers recorded a significant operating loss of £17.2 million in the most recent financial year. Additionally, the club recently secured a spot in the last 16 of the Europa League by overcoming Union SG with a 2-1 victory. This success allows them to avoid the play-off round, having finished eighth in the table.
"We will see what we get and we need to switch our mind fast now towards the Premiership again to focus on that," Clement stated, highlighting the need for a quick transition back to league play. He noted that while there have been commendable performances in Europe and at home, there have also been points lost in away games, which he believes need addressing.
The manager underscored the pressing need for reinforcements, saying, "I think it's necessary to make a next step with the squad in certain positions." His desire for more players comes in light of recent loan departures, with Kieran Dowell and Rabbi Matondo both leaving Rangers for Birmingham City and Hannover, respectively. Their exits stemmed from a lack of playing time despite receiving substantial wages.
Clement reflected on the team's European performances, stating, "I think it's for everybody clear if you don't have good performances – because it's about eight games in Europe – you cannot land at that spot." He acknowledged that while there were strong displays in both European matches and at Ibrox, consistency remains an issue, particularly in away fixtures.
As Rangers prepare for their upcoming clash with Ross County, the focus remains on reinforcing the squad. The team is set to face one of Bodo/Glimt, Anderlecht, Twente, or Fenerbahce in March as they continue their journey in European competition.
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