Fraser Thornton claims Rangers in decline for a DECADE as he brands away form 'horrendous' and makes protest banner quip

New Rangers chairman Fraser Thornton insists Rangers have been failing for DECADES as he described the away form under Philippe Clement as “HORRENDOUS” and made a quip about the recent banner protests in an address to hospitality clients.

Thornton appeared alongside CEO Patrick Stewart in one of the lounges at Ibrox Stadium ahead of the win over Aberdeen on Wednesday and the qualified chartered accountant pulled no punches as he discussed past failures and the current struggles on the pitch, particularly on the road in the Scottish Premiership.

Thornton appeared at a media conference days earlier but it was led by ex Manchester United chief Stewart who revealed the club were backing beleaguered boss Clement who has come under fire for falling 13 points behind rivals Celtic. Just 24 hours later, the Rangers ultras fan group the Union Bears staged a walkout in the 55th minute of the win over basement side St Johnstone over the running of the club.

And then again the Dons in midweek message, inspired by words from legendary late boss Walter Smith, was sent out which read: "Rangers FC - do not enter unless you're ready to put yourself second and that should be the one and only time second is good enough for you.”

Thornton referenced the banners in his speech which took place in the Thornton Suite as he explained the decision to stick by Clement and said they had to solve long-standing issues, claiming Rangers hadn’t had a team able to challenge domestically for 10 years - despite an unbeaten title-winning campaign under Steven Gerrard in 2021.

Taking the mic, he said: “Good evening ladies and gentleman. I apologies for cutting into the middle of the festivities here but Patrick and I were keen at least to come and say hello,