I will not play again: Ranger key player has decided to quit due to…

Manager Philippe Clement says in-form striker Hamza Igamane will eventually move on from Rangers but “not in the near future”.

The Moroccan, 22, joined the club in the summer and after a slow start has scored 11 goals, with eight coming since the start of December.

Clement is convinced Igamane will go on to play at a higher level but stressed Rangers need to keep hold of their best players as they rebuild their squad.

“It’s important now, if we want consistency, that we’re not going to sell players who are performing well – otherwise it becomes even more difficult,” the Rangers boss added.

“That’s going to be something for the future for Hamza. I’m confident about that, but not in the near future.”

Asked if the club are already considering offering Igamane an improved contract, Clement said it was for chief executive Patrick Stewart and technical director Nils Koppen to address fans and the media on those issues.

Meanwhile the Rangers boss said it was a “difficult question” whether he was happy with the recruitment budget for January.

Rangers are reportedly in the market for defenders with injuries to John Souttar, Leon Balogun, James Tavernier, and Neraysho Kasanwirjo resulting in a makeshift backline for recent games.

“Every manager wants more, but I’m realistic,” Clement said. “What is possible for the club, I will work really hard to get the best out of that.

“There are not many clubs where you can get a blank chequebook to do whatever you want. It doesn’t happen so much.

“I know what the situation of the club is, I know what the plan is, I know it’s a long-term plan. I engage myself fully into that, so I’m not going to complain about it.”