Philippe Clement issued Rangers report card with just one black mark as Arthur Numan makes top of the class prediction

Arthur Numan insists Philippe Clement should be proud of his glowing three-month report card - and reckons the Rangers gaffer and his side are on course to finish top of the Premiership class.

The big Belgian has passed almost all of his initial Ibrox examinations so far having lifted the Viaplay Cup on the back of steering the club into the last 16 of the Europa League. The only blot on the boss’ copy book is a defeat to Celtic in his first Old Firm head-to-head last week.

But there will be all to play for in the second half of the season if the Light Blues can win their two games in hand on Brendan Rodgers’ team and cut the gap at the top back to just two points. And Ibrox legend Numan is backing Clement to make the grade this season. He said: “Overall for Rangers supporters, there is plenty to be optimistic about between now and the end of May.

“I think Philippe has settled very well and has delivered silverware and a place in the knockout stages of the Europa League. His report card for the opening three months of his tenure is impressive.

“We are also right back in the race to win the Premiership and it's in our own hands. I thought everyone at the football club showed terrific character to beat Kilmarnock on Tuesday afternoon.

“It was important to bounce back after the Old Firm defeat with a strong performance against Killie. The players are now having a deserved break before they meet up next week for the winter training camp in Spain.

“Everyone will return looking to make this an even more successful season. I've a positive feeling it can be done.”

Clement’s job this month will be to repair the damage done by Michael Beale’s failed summer rebuild. He’s put the first piece in place with the loan signing of Wolves