Philippe Clement has emphasized his commitment to giving young players opportunities at Rangers, with talents like Bailey Rice and Finlay Curtis seeing game time in recent weeks. However, Clement has occasionally hesitated when it comes to integrating the youngest members of the squad, acknowledging the immense pressure that comes with wearing the blue jersey at Ibrox—a challenge even for the club’s most seasoned players.
Bailey Rice, widely regarded as one of Rangers’ brightest prospects, was substituted at halftime during the Scottish Cup loss to Queen’s Park, a game that proved disappointing for the entire team. In the aftermath, Clement faced scrutiny over his handling of the midfielder and his own future at the club ahead of the Hearts match. He revealed that he had spoken with Rice following the defeat, aiming to address any potential concerns about the player’s development.
Michael Beale had previously suggested in September 2023 that Rice was “ready” for the Rangers first team, but Clement appears to hold a different view, emphasizing the 18-year-old’s need to improve his off-the-ball play. Despite gradually increasing Rice’s minutes this season, Clement described the Queen’s Park result as disappointing for everyone involved, including the young midfielder. Some fans speculated that Rice had been unfairly used as a scapegoat, a claim Clement firmly denied, assuring that the halftime substitution would not harm the teenager’s growth.
Addressing the situation, Clement explained, “I’ve spoken with Bailey Rice, just as I do with all the players regularly, both collectively and individually. There’s no reason to worry about his confidence being impacted by the halftime decision.”
Clement clarified that the meeting with Rice included input from Rangers academy coach Brian Gilmour, ensuring consistency in the young player’s development. He also shared that Rice was honest about his performance, admitting he was dissatisfied with his first half against Queen’s Park. Clement attributed Rice’s struggles to the weight of expectations at Ibrox, noting the midfielder’s connection to the club as a lifelong fan.
“Bailey was the first to acknowledge he wasn’t happy with his performance,” said Clement. “It’s normal—he’s 18, playing at Ibrox for the first time, and there’s a natural tension that comes with that. I believe strongly in his potential. He has exceptional qualities, particularly his ability to break lines with forward passes, but he didn’t showcase those strengths in that match.”
Clement acknowledged the frustration among fans over Rice’s substitution but defended his decision, explaining that regardless of the outcome, questions would have been raised about his choices. “After the game, people might say I should’ve kept Bailey on longer, but then others would’ve asked why I didn’t bring in the experienced Nicolas Raskin at halftime. Hindsight always raises such debates.”
The Rangers manager remains confident in Rice’s future, commending the midfielder’s maturity and willingness to learn from the experience. Despite the poor result against Queen’s Park, Clement insisted it would ultimately be a valuable lesson for the young player. “I’m certain this experience will make him better. He’s motivated, hungry, and understands what he needs to improve. I have no doubts about his potential.
