Philippe Clement won't bite on Rangers trophy do or die as he points to 'fruits of what was planted in the summer'

Some Rangers fans have already written off the entire season.

Miles off Celtic at the top of the Premiership. Out of the Champions League early doors. And an Old Firm cup final defeat at Hampden. It doesn’t make for great reading and to some staunch Bluenoses who, quite rightly, believe winning is all that matters, it’s difficult to be optimistic about the future. But given that the title is beyond them, what WOULD represent a successful campaign for the Ibrox side?

That’s where the Scottish Cup suddenly takes on even greater importance. Because if under-fire gaffer Philippe Clement could somehow get his hands on the trophy in May, it might just buy him time. A chunk of the support have already made up their minds and want him out. But winning this competition, which kicks off against Highland League outfit Fraserburgh, could be significant.

Especially if Clement can point to the development of three youngsters who are emerging not just as key players now – but also adding considerable market value to Gers’ squad. He warned in the summer that it would be a turbulent campaign for the club. But he also vowed to nurture fresh talent that could earn them a fortune.

And in Hamza Igamane, Jefte – and now French kid Clinton Nsiala – on this at least Clement appears to be on track. Nsiala strolled it in Rangers’ 3-0 win over Aberdeen in midweek and looks an astute addition after arriving from AC Milan.

So would winning the Scottish Cup – and developing a trio of potential stars – be a good season for Clement? He refused to bite but said: “I’m not thinking about that right now.

“Let’s keep those questions for the end of the season. First, it’s about creating a culture to win every game. I don’t want my players to only think