Barry Ferguson

Barry Ferguson argues that Rangers’ disappointing 1-1 draw with Dundee United exposed a lack of intensity and killer instinct among the players. He expects manager Derek McInnes to hold frank discussions with the squad and demand urgent support from the recruitment department, particularly the addition of creative attacking players. Ferguson believes Rangers have time to recover, with Europa League and Scottish Premiership fixtures against Jagiellonia Białystok and Hibernian offering immediate opportunities to rebuild momentum.

Barry Ferguson argues that Rangers will no longer be a “soft touch” under Derek McInnes, citing the team's steeliness, intensity and mental readiness in pre-season. He says McInnes understands Scottish football and must prioritize reclaiming domestic trophies before European ambitions. Ferguson acknowledges that Rangers still need attacking reinforcements, but highlights Cammy Devlin's work rate and sees potential for Thelo Aasgaard to make a stronger impact.

Barry Ferguson argues that Rangers are right to appeal Derek McInnes’s four-match touchline ban after he called a controversial VAR decision in the Motherwell-Celtic match “disgusting.” Ferguson says managers and players must be able to express honest opinions, provided they do not make unsupported allegations about officials’ integrity. He warns that upholding the suspension could make participants fearful of speaking publicly, harming the authenticity and appeal of Scottish football. Although Rangers would benefit from having McInnes on the touchline, Ferguson considers the wider health of the game more important.

Barry Ferguson reflects on Derek McInnes's imminent first walk into the Ibrox home dugout as Rangers manager. Drawing on his own experience as a Rangers captain and manager, Ferguson says the occasion will be uniquely emotional for McInnes, who has spent nearly 20 years working toward the role. He argues that McInnes sees Rangers as the pinnacle rather than a stepping stone and believes his connection with the club and its supporters gives him a strong foundation. Ferguson acknowledges the challenge of restoring Rangers after a disappointing period, but says McInnes is ready to take accountability and return the club to a dominant position.

Allan McGregor is praised as an experienced, highly organised and competitive coach whose return to Rangers is seen as a strong appointment by Derek McInnes. Barry Ferguson highlights McGregor’s work ethic, influence on goalkeepers and deep understanding of the club’s identity, which he believes Rangers have lacked in recent years. He also supports the potential return of Vaclav Cerny, describing him as a game-changing player who already understands the club’s environment.

Barry Ferguson declines to comment on speculation linking his nephew Lewis Ferguson with Rangers but expresses enthusiasm for the club’s summer signings, particularly Dan Neil, whose leadership and on‑field demands he admires. He reviews several arrivals, noting their qualities and potential impact, and stresses the importance of stabilizing the squad after last season. He believes the early transfer work provides a solid foundation for Rangers to build on moving forward.

Scotland’s World Cup struggles provoke frustration as Barry Ferguson argues players failed to meet their potential despite strong experience and expectations. He highlights avoidable defensive errors, a lack of technical sharpness, and missed opportunities for key players such as Andy Robertson, John McGinn and Scott McTominay. Ferguson defends manager Steve Clarke, crediting his role in leading Scotland to three major tournaments while acknowledging growing criticism. He calls for significant changes in youth development, urging less overcoaching and greater freedom for young players to help produce more elite talent. The emergence of a younger generation is seen as essential for future progress.

Derek McInnes is praised as an ideal and long‑awaited managerial appointment for Rangers, with emphasis on his experience, loyalty to the club, and understanding of its expectations. Stability and a long‑term plan are highlighted as essential after years of frequent managerial changes. Improving squad mentality and making strong recruitment decisions, including the signing of Lawrence Shankland, are identified as early priorities. McInnes’ background as a player under high‑standard managers is presented as formative to his leadership style, with confidence expressed that he can restore Rangers to the top of Scottish football.

Red Bull Salzburg’s surprise approach for Rangers manager Danny Rohl raises questions about his future, with concerns over timing ahead of pre‑season and transfer planning. Barry Ferguson empathizes with Rohl’s personal motivations but argues that Rangers offer major potential and should stay committed to the cultural and leadership changes outlined by chairman Andrew Cavenagh. He highlights recent signings such as Lawrence Shankland as key steps toward building a stronger, more competitive squad.

Barry Ferguson explains that he long considered Lawrence Shankland the ideal signing for Rangers due to his maturity, leadership qualities and proven scoring ability. Although the club did not pursue him earlier, Ferguson believes Shankland’s arrival now reflects a renewed focus on strengthening the team with Scottish talent and restoring the club’s identity. He argues that Shankland’s mentality and all‑round game make him a key figure in helping drive higher standards within the squad and contributing to Rangers’ long‑term success.

Concerns about Rangers being treated as a hobby by new chairman Andrew Cavenagh have been replaced by confidence as his hands‑on approach and public accountability convince supporters of his commitment. After a trophyless season, he acknowledges mistakes and plans a more involved role in football decisions, prioritising players with character as well as talent. The failed loan spell of Andreas Skov Olsen highlights the club’s need for stronger personalities, and Cavenagh’s forthright message signals a decisive shift ahead of next season.

James Tavernier’s unexpected omission from Rangers’ lineup prompted sadness and confusion, with Barry Ferguson expressing disappointment that the long-serving captain was denied a proper farewell. Ferguson praises Tavernier’s professionalism and suggests a breakdown between the player and manager Danny Rohl, noting their conflicting accounts of events. He warns that the situation reflects broader issues within the dressing room as Rangers end the season on a poor run of results. Looking ahead, he argues the club must rebuild leadership within the squad and recruit strong characters to avoid a repeat of this season’s struggles.

Danny Rohl faces intense scrutiny after consecutive losses left Rangers’ title hopes fading, highlighting the demanding expectations surrounding the club. Barry Ferguson argues that while Rohl has shown progress, he must accept criticism as part of managing Rangers and ensure players respond with determination in the remaining matches. Despite slim odds of winning the Premiership, Ferguson urges the team to fight for pride and finish the season strongly with victories over Celtic, Hibs and Falkirk.

Rangers are urged to channel the frustration of their recent defeat to Motherwell into a decisive performance against Hearts, with only a win keeping their title hopes alive. Barry Ferguson reflects on past experiences, stressing the need for intensity, leadership and a strong mindset at Tynecastle. He warns that failure to capitalize on potential slip-ups by rivals would haunt the squad, while a win could dramatically shift momentum in Rangers’ favour.

Barry Ferguson reflects on James Tavernier’s decision to leave Rangers after 11 years, expressing surprise over the timing but praising the captain’s professionalism and contribution. He hopes Tavernier finishes with a league title and rejects claims that the defender was a failure. Ferguson also addresses speculation about his nephew Lewis Ferguson joining Rangers, stressing that such a move is unlikely given his status at Bologna and interest from major Italian clubs.

Three Record Sport columnists predict the outcomes of the final five matches for Hearts, Rangers and Celtic in an unusually tight Scottish Premiership title race. Ryan Stevenson forecasts Hearts securing 11 points, Barry Ferguson expects Rangers to claim a maximum 15, and Chris Sutton predicts a mixed run for Celtic, leaving them short in the title chase. Their combined projections outline how key fixtures, particularly head-to-head clashes, could determine the eventual champion.

Barry Ferguson describes initial concern over Rangers’ poor start against Falkirk before Nicolas Raskin’s dynamic performance convinced him the midfielder could be decisive in the title race. He recalls advising Raskin to play more aggressively and push forward to maximise his strengths, crediting recent midfield partners for enabling his impact. Ferguson criticises how Raskin was previously handled by management but believes his renewed form could help Rangers finish the season on top.

Rangers face a critical season run‑in with key January signings Ryan Naderi and Tuur Rommens sidelined, while Andreas Skov Olsen has yet to meet expectations. Barry Ferguson argues the Danish winger needs time to adapt and predicts he can make a decisive impact in the remaining matches, drawing parallels with Vaclav Cerny’s earlier turnaround. He rejects complaints about post‑split fixtures and urges the squad to embrace the challenging away schedule, stressing that success in upcoming games, starting with Falkirk, will determine the title race.

Rangers approach a decisive stage in the Premiership title race, with Barry Ferguson dismissing claims that the squad lacks mental strength. He argues the players are motivated by outside criticism and emphasises the importance of seizing the opportunity to reach the top of the table. Ferguson highlights James Tavernier’s leadership and determination, insisting the team is fully driven to prove doubters wrong during the season’s final weeks.

Andrew Cavenagh’s increased investment and hands‑on leadership have strengthened confidence in Rangers’ long‑term direction, with his engagement across the club and commitment to traditional standards highlighted as key strengths. Continued financial backing from the 49ers ownership group signals a sustained effort to return Rangers to consistent trophy success. Danny Rohl’s managerial impact has revitalised the team, keeping them firmly in the Premiership title race as the season enters its final stages.

Barry Ferguson reflects on his time managing Rangers, emphasizing the professionalism, dedication and leadership of James Tavernier and John Souttar despite their recent absences from the starting lineup. He highlights the growing contributions of Dujon Sterling, Manny Fernandez and Nasser Djiga, while criticizing former manager Russell Martin’s decisions to let key players Vaclav Cerny and Cyriel Dessers leave. Ferguson praises Findlay Curtis for his development on loan at Kilmarnock and anticipates further success for several players as Rangers push for the league title.

Barry Ferguson reflects on the fallout from Rangers’ recent defeats to Celtic, describing deep disappointment over both the on‑field results and the violence surrounding the Scottish Cup quarter‑final at Ibrox. He laments the impact on young supporters and believes full away allocations are now unlikely to return. Ferguson urges Rangers to respond by winning their final nine league matches to salvage the season and restore pride, insisting that only the players can lift the gloom felt by supporters after a difficult fortnight.

Rangers’ dominant first‑half display in the recent Old Firm derby is contrasted with their failure to sustain control after conceding to Kieran Tierney, prompting concerns ahead of the upcoming Scottish Cup quarter‑final rematch. Barry Ferguson urges Rangers to replicate their early aggression, learn from tactical missteps, and ensure momentum does not swing in Celtic’s favor. He highlights Youssef Chermiti’s impact and insists Rangers must prevent Celtic supporters from celebrating, stressing the psychological importance of securing a decisive win at Ibrox.

Barry Ferguson describes the emotional intensity surrounding the upcoming Old Firm derby, reflecting on his own experiences as a Rangers player and the responsibility he felt to supporters. He stresses the importance of the match for the title race, believes Rangers can win, and urges current players—especially newer ones—to embrace the atmosphere and significance of the occasion. He plans to attend with his sons, emphasising the unique pressure and honour of representing the club.

Rangers’ improved energy and renewed connection with supporters at Ibrox signal a turning point in the team’s season. Barry Ferguson credits manager Danny Rohl’s tactical flexibility and willingness to adjust formations to suit each match. A strong performance against Hearts restored belief in the squad, with fans showing full backing early on match day. Ferguson argues that this rebuilding of trust between players and supporters can help fuel a sustained push through the remainder of the season.

Three Record Sport columnists predict the outcomes of the next five Scottish Premiership fixtures for Hearts, Rangers and Celtic in a tightly contested title race separated by only three points. Hearts are tipped to take maximum points under Ryan Stevenson’s forecast, Rangers are predicted by Barry Ferguson to also secure 15 points with strong home performances, and Chris Sutton expects Celtic to earn nine points amid schedule challenges and inconsistent form. Bookmaker odds favour Celtic slightly but the analysts outline varied paths for all three clubs as the title fight intensifies.

Rangers’ late draw at Motherwell prompts criticism of the team’s mentality, but Barry Ferguson rejects doubts about their resilience, arguing there has been a clear shift in attitude and hunger under Danny Rohl. He warns that Motherwell are a formidable side likely to take points from others and insists Rangers remain firmly in the title race. With Hearts visiting Ibrox next, he stresses the need for an uncompromising win to close the gap at the top, while defending recent team selection decisions based on player fitness and suitability. The match is framed as a key moment to demonstrate Rangers’ strength and staying power in the title battle.

Rangers’ improved performance against Kilmarnock highlighted the development of on‑loan Tottenham winger Mikey Moore, prompting calls for Rangers to secure another year of his loan to maximise his progress and benefit both clubs. New January signings made strong impacts, raising confidence for a tight title race that is expected to continue to the season’s end.