Hugh Keevins’ assertion that Rangers’ current situation is worse than when they were liquidated is a compelling commentary on the emotional and psychological state of the club and its supporters.
The liquidation of Rangers in 2012 was a dramatic and deeply distressing event, marked by financial collapse and the loss of the club’s historical records. Yet, Keevins suggests that the present crisis is even more profound due to what he describes as “emotional bankruptcy.”
To understand this, it’s important to recognize the context in which Keevins makes this claim. The liquidation of Rangers was a financial calamity that ended a significant chapter in Scottish football history, but it was a tangible problem with a clear path to resolution.
The new entity that emerged post-liquidation, often referred to as “Rangers 2012,” was a fresh start that involved rebuilding and rebranding. Despite the hardships, there was a sense of hope and renewal.
In contrast, Keevins argues that the current situation, marked by a deep sense of emotional disillusionment among fans and stakeholders, represents a more severe crisis.
Emotional bankruptcy refers to a state where the emotional and psychological resources that sustain fan engagement and club loyalty are depleted.
This situation can result from prolonged underachievement, mismanagement, or a series of negative events that leave fans feeling disconnected and disheartened.
For Rangers, this could manifest in a variety of ways. Persistent poor performance on the pitch, contentious management decisions, and controversies off the field can erode the bond between the club and its supporters.
When fans feel that their emotional investment is not reciprocated with positive outcomes or genuine progress, it can lead to a sense of betrayal and despondency.
This emotional disconnection can be more damaging than financial problems because it strikes at the very heart of what makes a football club special: the shared passion and identity of its supporters.
Moreover, while financial issues can be addressed through restructuring and new investment, emotional bankruptcy is more challenging to remedy.
Rebuilding trust and enthusiasm takes time and consistent positive experiences, which are not easily achieved. Thus, Keevins’ comparison highlights the severity of the current malaise at Rangers.
It underscores that while financial issues can be resolved with effort and resources, the emotional toll on fans and the club’s identity is a deeper and more complex issue that needs to be addressed with sensitivity and understanding.
In summary, Hugh Keevins’ commentary serves as a stark reminder of the intangible but critical aspects of a football club’s health. The notion of emotional bankruptcy offers a perspective on how the current difficulties faced by Rangers are profoundly affecting the club’s spirit and the loyalty of its supporters, potentially even more so than the tangible financial collapse of the past.
Leave a Reply