Philippe Clement 'very proud' of Rangers despite Manchester United loss

Rangers manager Philippe Clement revealed his pride at how the team competed with Manchester United – and admitted players were “gutted” at losing a late goal in the 2-1 defeat.

An own goal from Jack Butland had Rangers trailing going into the final few minutes of the Europa League clash at Old Trafford but substitute Cyriel Dessers fired in a goal to draw his team level in the 88th minute.

Just as it looked like both sides would each be taking a point towards their target of reaching the last 16, Bruno Fernandes knocked in a late winner for the hosts.

Clement felt his side deserved more from their showing but reflected on how well they had performed in difficult circumstances.

“I saw everybody gutted in the dressing room,” he said. “Disappointed that they lost after playing that kind of game.

“You want to win, you want to take the points that you deserve.

“But on the other side and it may be stronger, I’m also very proud about what the team did today. How they stuck to the plan, followed the tactics all the way and with the young players coming on and staying like that.

“We had to make two changes at halftime and put players in positions that they normally don’t play.

“There were so many circumstances but the team stayed compact and well-organised.

“And they stayed brave on the ball because we created enough chances. I think in the first half we had the best chances, and in the second half we went behind when Manchester was playing better but we didn’t stop, believed and kept playing to get a goal that we made in a really good way.

“So it’s disappointing to concede the second goal.”

One plus point for the club and their support was the impression made by young players Bailey Rice, Findlay Curtis and Leon King when they were introduced and Clement was happy with how they contributed to the collective effort.

He said: “A lot of positives with a young group, with eight players who could be first team not being here, with young lads coming on the pitch and throwing themselves into it for the colours of the club and the experienced guys supporting them all the way.

“Those are very positive signs also.”