5 critical Rangers issues that must be resolved as Celtic post mortem throws up Clement question and investment demand

The post mortem has started after yet another Old Firm defeat and the problems at Rangers run much deeper than simply a five-point gap to their fierce rivals at the top of the Scottish Premiership table.

Light Blues legend Graeme Souness admitted that a derby loss in Glasgow always results in a scattergun blame game as the 71-year-old pleaded for patience from raging fans to avoid a knee-jerk reaction. But what can’t be denied is the regression since Steven Gerrard led Rangers to a first title in a decade and a failure to take full advantage of their dominance over Celtic during that Invincible league season.

“You lose an Old Firm game, everything is wrong,” said Souness. “I would plead with the fans to take a deep breath and calm down because it only benefits one side - Celtic. Get behind your manager and get behind your football club.” But while Rangers fans are known for their loyalty, blind loyalty is another thing and they won’t stick their heads in the sand. So what are the major short-to-long term issues that must be resolved to close the gap on Celtic? Record Sport takes a look.

There is no doubt that fans are divided on Philippe Clement. The timing of his supporters Q&A at Edmiston House next Tuesday could hardly have been worse for the Belgian. Or maybe he will feel it is an opportunity to mount his defence. But what about the Rangers board? Twelve months ago they were in the same position, defeat in the first Old Firm derby of the season leaving them trailing Celtic by five points. That fixture was at Ibrox, though, making it slightly worse. Michael Beale limped on as he put together four wins on the spin in all competitions but performances were well below par and there was a feeling the inevitable was