In an article published on Sunday, January 21,

on pages 94–95 of the Scottish Mail, Keown called the upcoming arrivals at Ibrox a “necessity.”

Without a doubt, Keown noted,

“They are under tremendous pressure right now to get this club functioning well and competing for awards.

“A start would be significant signings in the upcoming days.

They are, in fact, essential.

It is true that throughout their tenure in office,

some changes have occurred. Nils Koppen has a director of recruitment in place.

It has been determined that scouting and medical need to reform. There are now higher expectations for a restructured youth department that has reportedly only given Clement access to Ross McCausland as a first team option.

But it doesn’t take much to figure out that things still need to be improved.

While Michael Beale was still in command of the team last summer,

the Gers added a lot of players,

but many of them haven’t made an impression thus far in Scotland.

With two games remaining,

they might close the eight-point deficit to only two points.

Philippe Clement has had a successful first few months in charge of the team,

having guided them to the UEFA Europa League Round of 16.

Supporting the Belgian in the transfer market, though, will be crucial,

and Keown is correct when he says that club executives like Bennett and Bisgrove are under duress to back their manager

Clement has demonstrated his worth thus far in terms of financial support;

it is now the responsibility of the higher-ranking officials at Ibrox to provide that specific support.

The Gers may be in a great position to challenge Celtic all season if they are able to accomplish that.