Alex Rae has reflected on the controversial sports science decisions that played a part in Philippe Clement’s exit from Rangers.
One of the most contentious calls during Clement’s tenure was the exclusion of Vaclav Cerny from the starting XI for a crucial Scottish Premiership trip to Motherwell on December 29, with the winger then being introduced at the interval because Rangers were 2-0 down.
The move, influenced by advice from the club’s sports scientists, angered many fans and sparked debate among pundits.
Clement revealed that the decision was made based on concerns over player fitness, particularly related to “red zones,” which track players’ fatigue levels.
Rae, who was assistant to Clement and left following the Belgian's dismissal on February 23, shared his perspective on the issue, saying: “I think he was steadfast in his approach to that because he felt as if that was the way. I’m not sure if he did, but I would imagine he would have done that at previous clubs where he had success and listened to them.
Read more:
- Ex-Rangers coach lifts lid on working under Philippe Clement
-
Former Rangers duo celebrate league success in India after unlikely career journeys
“I came from a period where you get your best XI on the pitch and wrap them in cotton wool in between games. But the game is changing, and so much so that the guy who was giving him this information about where they were, red zones and so forth has been headhunted by Chelsea.”
However, Rae also acknowledged that while sports science advice can have an impact, the final decision always lies with the manager.
He continued: “It boils down to the manager, and it will be his decision, and at times, he did choose to kind of listen to these guys. So that was his decision.”
The decision to part ways with Clement came after a run of disappointing results, including a Scottish Cup exit to Queen’s Park that Clement himself admitted was “embarrassing.”
And the former Rangers first-team coach also opened up about the painful conversation he had with CEO Patrick Stewart, in which he was informed of his own sacking from the club.
Speaking on the Go Radio Football Show, Rae said: “I spoke to Patrick Stewart. It was a fairly amicable discussion. I wasn't hard work in any shape or form. I think he was probably more relieved there wasn't a rant or rave coming down the phone.
"I have been round this game long enough. They've made their decision and it is just time to move on. He said to me at the tail end of the conversation, 'you are welcome to come to the football club as our guest and I said I have two season tickets in the Broomloan Road’."
As Rae watches from the sidelines, he’ll be hoping for a strong run from Rangers under interim manager Barry Ferguson, with the club aiming to advance to the Europa League quarter-finals this week.
Meanwhile, he reflects on his own time at Ibrox with a mix of pride, disappointment, and respect for the decisions made during a challenging period.
