Philippe Clement slaps down Celtic question as Rangers boss gets bullish over Viaplay Cup 'expectations'

Rangers boss Philippe Clement insists Celtic's elimination from the League Cup has no bearing on his preparations as he gave a cheeky response to a reporter at his press conference.

Clement was speaking ahead of Sunday's Viaplay Cup clash with Hearts as Rangers look to take a big step towards silverware at the first time of asking under their new boss. They had it tough against the Jambos at the weekend but managed to come away with three Premiership points thanks to a stoppage time turnaround, capped off with Danilo's header in the 96th minute.

It's a major chance for the Light Blues to lift silverware as they come into the semi-final clash as heavy favourites to lift he cup, with holders Celtic out. But when asked if he sensed a heightened expectation with the Hoops out, Clement was defiant. He said: "Those are all really good things for you guys because you can make a lot of stories about that.

"If the players show quality and do that, every day, every game, then at the end of the season there will be silverware. We need to focus on ourselves."

Clement was also asked about stars like Cyriel Dessers and Sam Lammers who have generally underperformed so far despite big expectations. But he insists that 'outside noise' hasn't affected him - pointing to his former Genk striker Ally Samatta, who he turned from a perceived flop into the club's top scorer and eventually sold to Aston Villa.

He went on: "They had criticism? I don't know. That's why I'm not busy with noise. I'm busy with what I see in training and in games. I was not the biggest talent as a player, I also had my criticisms. I know how things go.

"I had players in the past that everybody said were good players and could not do something. A good example of