Ross McCausland: Philippe Clement has 'good feeling' on new Rangers deal for winger
- Published
Ross McCausland made his first Rangers start against Livingston this month
Philippe Clement has "a good feeling" that new Northern Ireland cap Ross McCausland can be persuaded to sign a new contract with Rangers.
The 20-year-old winger was given his first senior international appearance days after being handed his first club start by the new manager at Ibrox.
But McCausland's current contract ends next summer and will likely have attracted interest from rival clubs.
"I have no idea about that," Clement said of possible suitors.
"That's always something for the player and his agent. We're talking with him about a new contract. I have a good feeling around that, but it needs to be on paper first."
Clement stressed he was comfortable about giving McCausland extra exposure before tying him down longer-term.
"I could have treated the situation in a different way and first let him sign a contract before I let him play," he said. "I didn't do that because I know how important Glasgow Rangers is for Ross.
"After his game against Livingston and the good performance, he got also the international call. That's also because he started a game. I think we're on the right way and I have total trust that it's going to be a positive story."
Reports from Turkey suggesting that Fenerbahce are prepared to allow out-of-favour Ryan Kent to leave on loan in January only six months after leaving Rangers have led to speculation about a possible return to Ibrox for the 27-year-old winger.
"I never go into rumours," Clement stressed. "I will speak about players when they are in the building - and I don't just mean in this situation."
Clement feels that Rangers' injury problems have eased at an ideal time with "12 games in 37 days" during the festive period.
Striker Kemar Roofe and Nico Raskin are the only definite absentees, with the Belgian's fellow midfielder, Ryan Jack, doubtful to face Aberdeen on Sunday.
"We are going to need a fit squad," Clement added. "We are going to need a large number of players to make a good rotation so that every second on the pitch they can go at 100%."
Our coverage of Rangers is bigger and better than ever before - here's everything you need to know to make sure you never miss a moment