Robbie Neilson 'rejects' Rangers No.2 shot as Philippe Clement talks fail to land former Hearts boss

Robbie Neilson's move to America came off the back of rejecting the chance to become Philippe Clement's number two at Rangers, it has been claimed.

The former Ibrox youth star put pen to paper with Tampa Bay Rowdies ahead of their USL Championship campaign starting in 2024 and a chance for a shock return has been revealed. Neilson has been out of work since he was sacked by Hearts earlier this year after the club found themselves losing a stronghold in the race for third, but he did get them European group stage football through a third place finish.

Over two spells, he has also guided them out of the Championship and back into Premiership reckoning. He now moves to America for a new experience, having also managed MK Dons. But ESPN's Mark Donaldson states there was a shock chance for him to remain in Scotland, with new Rangers boss Clement holding talks with Neilson about becoming his Ibrox number two.

It wasn't a deal the former Hearts boss took up and eventually Stephan Van Der Heyden was appointed. Neilson starts his new role in January and will be assisted by former Rangers and Motherwell midfielder Nicky Law.

He said: “I’m so grateful for the fantastic opportunity the ownership of the Rowdies has given me to help this club continue its development. It’s truly a great setup for soccer here in Tampa Bay. There is a great training ground and all the facilities you need for the team to continue to progress and be successful."

Clement meanwhile has had a fine start to life in Glasgow and remains unbeaten, having secured a Viaplay Cup final slot with a 3-1 win over Hearts. He faces Sparta Prague in the Europa League on Thursday night.