When Michael Beale said that he was going to play free flowing, entertaining football with the handbrake off, Rangers fans were unanimously excited, however, it has taken for Philippe Clement to be appointed to finally see it.
The new Gers boss has set his stall out immediately, wanting his team to dominate but not just in terms of possession statistics or shooting from long range.
Posting on X, The Rangers Analyst explained just how much of a difference to Rangers play Philippe Clement has made and how it stands us in good stead for a title challenge.
Rangers make marked improvement under Philippe Clement
Under the previous manager, Rangers would resort to too many crosses from long range and from in front of the opposition defence.
Against Dundee, Rangers were getting in behind with only Trevor Carson keeping the score down to 5-0.
According to The Rangers Analyst, Michael Beale’s seven league fixtures this season, his team accumulated a total xG (expected goals) tally of 13.13xG.
Already under the new Rangers manager, Philippe Clement has seen his side amass 11.37xG.
In just three games, two of those being against Hearts and Hibs.
Playing attacking football doesn’t have to be to the detriment of the defence but it is clear already that Beale just wouldn’t set his team up with the right mindset to play front-foot football.
Since taking charge at Rangers, the injury list has lengthened and yet Philippe Clement has still been able to make an immediate impression.
For example, the difference in John Lundstram has been key to our tempo.
He has been playing passes to break defensive lines as well as driving past players himself.
It is night and day to the monotonous recycling of play between the full-backs that we have seen for the best part of two years.
There will be tougher tests to come but, with momentum and the right mindset, anything is possible.
