The former Gers midfielder has been impressed by the Belgian this season, but admits it is too soon to compare him to Ibrox legend Walter Smith. Clement took over from Michael Beale earlier in the campaign, and has already lifted the Scottish League Cup. “Listen it’s far too early to be making comparisons between Philippe and Sir Walter,” McCall told the Daily Record. “But I certainly think he’s got a presence and an aura on the touchline like the Gaffer did.
Later on, he’d watch a lot of the games from up in the director’s box – but you always knew when he’d made his way down the stairs! “I don’t know Philippe but I watch his interviews, and I like how he conducts himself, how he speaks. He’s certainly level-headed and focused. Looking from the outside there are possibly similarities, but when Philippe’s won what the gaffer has won, only then can we start comparing the two. For the moment, however, he’s doing an outstanding job.”
The Gers really were down and out earlier in the season under Beale, with the manager struggling to inspire his squad.
They suffered many disappointing results across various competitions, with fierce rivals Celtic storming into a commanding Scottish Premiership lead.
Clement was then brought in by the Ibrox chiefs, in what was undoubtedly a risk, but one that has massively paid off.
The Belgian has already guided his players to success, while he also took them to the last 16 of the Europa League before a heartbreaking exit at the hands of Benfica.
But there is, of course, a lot to play for at Ibrox, with the Gers still in the Scottish Cup and of course still battling it out with Celtic in the Scottish Premiership. Edinburgh outfit Hearts await in the semi-finals of the former, while the Bhoys are currently a point ahead in the latter, but Rangers have a game in hand over their Glasgow rivals.
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