The post mortem has started after yet another Old Firm defeat and the problems at Rangers run much deeper than simply a five-point gap to their fierce rivals at the top of the Scottish Premiership table.
Manager There is no doubt that fans are divided on Philippe Clement. The timing of his supporters Q&A at Edmiston House next Tuesday could hardly have been worse for the Belgian. Or maybe he will feel it is an opportunity to mount his defence. But what about the Rangers board? Twelve months ago they were in the same position, defeat in the first Old Firm derby of the season leaving them trailing Celtic by five points. That fixture was at Ibrox, though, making it slightly worse.
Chairman John Bennett, and others, have had to carry out those duties throughout a crucial time of summer recruitment, not to mention the shambolic situation with the stadium and the delay in the construction work, which many people pointed the finger of blame at Bisgrove for. St Mirren vice-chairman Jim Gillespie is the man who appears to be in line for the job but there has been radio silence since the story broke with Buddies boss Stephen Robinson admitting he would be a “huge loss”.
Recruitment/player trading While rivals Celtic sold Matt O’Riley for £30m having signed the midfielder for £1.5m it was just the latest in a hugely successful player trading model. They even sold fringe players such as Mikey Johnston and striker Oh for decent money. Meanwhile, Rangers let good servants walk out of the Ibrox exit door for free and others sold for nominal fees.