FANS PROTESTING: Sunday’s 3-1 win against St Johnstone at Ibrox was overshadowed by protests against the club – both in management and at board level

Michael Stewart has slammed the timing of new Rangers CEO Patrick Stewart’s decision to publicly come out and back Philippe Clement.

The former Manchester United official gave the Belgian a vote of confidence on Saturday, the day before Gers defeated St Johnstone 3-1 at Ibrox. However, that victory was overshadowed by a mass walkout organised by the Union Bears in the 55th minute in protest against the running of the club. Several banners were also unveiled criticising the club hierarchy and calling for Clement to be sacked.And with two more home games in the next five days – against Aberdeen on Wednesday and then with the visit of Highland League minnows Fraserburgh in the Scottish Cup on Sunday – pundit Stewart has been left baffled by the timing of the new CEO’s statements.