Under-fire Rangers manager Philippe Clement is facing fresh turmoil at Ibrox as a reported rift with midfielder Nicolas Raskin adds to his mounting problems ahead of Saturday's critical Premiership clash against Hearts.
The Belgian boss, already under intense scrutiny following Rangers' disappointing start to the season, now confronts a new dressing room dilemma that threatens to undermine his authority at the Glasgow club.
Midfield Crisis Deepens for Clement
Sources close to the first team suggest a significant breakdown in relations between Clement and fellow countryman Raskin, casting serious doubt over the midfielder's immediate future at the club. The timing couldn't be worse for the embattled manager, who desperately needs a positive result against third-place Hearts.
With several key players already sidelined through injury, Clement can ill afford to lose another first-team regular. The situation represents another major test of the manager's man-management skills during what has become the most challenging period of his tenure.
Critical Hearts Encounter Looms
Saturday's match against Steven Naismith's in-form Hearts side takes on enormous significance for Clement's future. Another poor performance could see Rangers fall further behind in the title race and increase pressure on the Belgian tactician.
The Ibrox faithful have grown increasingly restless after recent disappointing results, and Clement knows only a convincing victory will ease the growing discontent among supporters.
Selection Headache Intensifies
Raskin's situation presents Clement with yet another selection headache. The midfielder's potential absence would further limit Clement's options in the middle of the park, an area where Rangers have struggled for consistency this season.
With the January transfer window still weeks away, Clement must find solutions from within his current squad to address the team's concerning form and mounting injury list.
As tension builds at Ibrox, all eyes will be on Clement's team selection and whether Raskin features against Hearts. The manager's handling of this delicate situation could prove pivotal to both his future and Rangers' season.
