Rangers coach granted Ibrox leave as mystery absence explained

Rangers assistant manager Andries Ulderink has been granted leave from the Ibrox club, says Four Lads Had A Dream.

Philippe Clement’s right-hand man has been missing from the Gers’ dugout for the last three games in an unexplained absence.

The Light Blues insiders have now reported via X (17 January) that the Dutch coach is currently “on leave from the club”.

This goes some way to explain why the 55-year-old has missed the clashes against Aberdeen, St Johnstone and Dundee.

Rangers assistant Andries Ulderink granted leave

It is unclear as to why the former Ajax Cape Town manager has been absent for the Light Blues but this has been sanctioned by the Govan club.

This absence hasn’t necessarily been felt with two wins and a draw in the matches which he has missed.

It will certainly be interesting to see whether the assistant coach will return to his post for the upcoming Scottish Cup clash against Fraserburgh on Sunday (19 January).

The level five club won’t represent the sternest test for the Light Blues but it would be a plus to have Ulderink back regardless.

Clement’s side will have to be on top of their game to avoid making a fool of themselves by failing to win or failing to win comfortably at Ibrox.

The impact of welcoming the Dutchman back to the dugout may prove to be something that is needed in Govan depending on what his absence has been caused by.

Rangers have made quick progress with Rafael Fernandes

The fact that he’s already arrived in Scotland suggests that the club have made quick progress surrounding his transfer.

Had things still been in the initial stages, he would not have already flown in.

It makes sense for Lille to loan him out as he’s yet to make a senior appearance in Ligue 1 for the French side.