TV pundits in stitches after the Viaplay Cup-winning Rangers boss brushed off questions about the title race.

The Belgian has made a sensational start to life at Ibrox, leading Gers to Hampden glory and evaporating Celtic’s seven-point lead after 14 games unbeaten. James Tavernier’s winner sparked wild scenes at the national stadium today as the Light Blues secured the season’s first major piece of silverware. Rangers were also boosted by Celtic’s shock 2-0 defeat at home to Hearts yesterday, which means they can now leapfrog Brendan Rodgers’ strugglers into top spot by winning their two games in hand.

It marks an incredible turnaround since Clement replaced Michael Beale in the Govan hotseat. But rather than turn his attention to the league race, Clement was keen to make the most of tonight’s celebrations as he batted away host Emma Dodds’ question live on Viaplay.

Dodds – who also presents on Rangers TV – asked: “Now you have this final out of the way, are you able to refocus on the league table? Obviously, some interesting results yesterday. Does it have a different complexion if you can take advantage of the games in hand?”

But Clement drew laughs from pundits Ally McCoist, Derek McInnes and Scott Arfield when he replied: “Yeah, you are already more down to earth than me! That’s a really tough question one hour after the cup final. I want to enjoy it a little bit and then maybe I’ll have a better indication about that. But this evening, I think it’s really important that the lads enjoy. They need to enjoy this evening. From tomorrow, I will be with my serious face again.”

  “Well I’m definitely not one to stand in the way of a celebration, so enjoy Philippe. Thanks very much.”

Gers legend McCoist couldn’t resist a cheeky dig as he poked fun at his “party popper” colleague, before Dodds laughed: “I know, I’ve never been accused of that in my life!

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