CUPS TOP CAPS

PHILIPPE CLEMENT insists Jack Butland is being driven by cups, not caps.

- CRAIG SWAN

Despite disappointment on the England front last month, the Rangers manager believes his No.1's hopes of making it to Euro 2024 are not yet over.

But the Belgian is clear Butland's big focus is performing for his club and seizing more silverware at Ibrox.

The keeper and his colleagues are gearing up for Sunday's Old Firm clash with Celtic as the title contenders aim to strike a massive blow in the race.

A victory in front of their own fans will catapult Clement's side back two points clear at the summit with a game in hand against Dundee still to come.

Butland's glare is fixed firmly on a first derby success and his form hasn't been affected by a snub on the international stage.

Three Lions gaffer Gareth Southgate had intimated he was on his radar, only for the 31-year-old to not make the cut when it came to picking a squad for their friendly double-header against Brazil and Belgium.

Instead, Sam Johnstone was selected to keep Jordan Pickford honest alongside Arsenal backup Aaron Ramsdale.

When Crystal Palace keeper Johnstone suffered a season ending elbow injury, Southgate promoted Burnley's James Trafford from the Under-21s.

Trafford, though, has now lost his place in the Clarets XI, with boss Vincent Kompany dropping him for the last two games, the latest being Tuesday's 1-1 draw with Wolves, in favour of Kosovo international Arijanet Muric.

Clement is adamant Butland should not give up and said: "It's not finished yet.

"Of course, it goes on until the day the selection is made, so there are chances."