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The National (Scotland)
The National (Scotland)
Sport
Stewart Wilson

Clement opens up on Shankland interaction as he insists it was 'nothing special'

Rangers boss Philippe Clement has opened up on his interaction with Hearts captain Lawrence Shankland after his side's recent victory at Tynecastle.

The Belgian was spotted giving the striker a hug at full time amid speculation linking the Scotland international with a move to Ibrox.

But Clement insists there was "nothing special" about the gesture. He said: "You guys have written a lot about that already. I'm never going to speak about players we are interested or not in.

"I hear some people really watch me a lot. I knew it in the city from one time in a restaurant. I need to think really well about what in the future I do.

"I don't want to be in the same situation as the German national coach, that I take something out of my nose or something.

"Clearly I must watch out really hard what I am doing but I greeted all the player of Hearts along the way - nothing really special there."

Clement also revealed that Rangers forward Danilo may require surgery after a knee injury sustained against St Mirren.

The Brazilian has not long returned to action after suffering a fractured cheekbone earlier in the season.

And Clement confirmed that the forward could have to go under the knife once again.

He said: "Danilo will also be out, a problem with his knee after a tackle during the game. There may be a chance of surgery.

"Our focus is now on the guys who are fit for big matches coming up in the next few weeks. We are creating chances, and keeping clean sheets.

"The team is taking big steps. A lot of work from everyone. The team is in a good way to improve and become better.

"It's now on others to show they are ready. Kemar (Roofe) is coming back from an injury also so we need to take that into account and just throw him back into the pitch. Scott Wright and Ryan Jack will also miss out tomorrow."

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