A Return to Ibrox: Barry Ferguson Appointed Rangers Head Coach
Barry Ferguson, a historic figure at Rangers, has been appointed as the club’s head coach for the remainder of the season, replacing Philippe Clement. The 47-year-old, who last managed part-time Alloa Athletic three years ago, is no stranger to the rigors and expectations of Ibrox. Ferguson, a former club captain, will be joined by a coaching team consisting of Neil McCann, Billy Dodds, Allan McGregor, and Issame Charai. The announcement came after a series of disappointing performances, including a 2-0 home defeat by St Mirren, which left Rangers 13 points behind league leaders Celtic. Ferguson, who was a club ambassador, expressed his enthusiasm and gratitude, saying, "It’s a job I couldn’t turn down. To be honest, I thought it would never come." Despite the temporary nature of the role, Ferguson is determined to make the most of it, emphasizing his belief in the quality of the current squad.
A Deep-Seated Change
The change in management is not just a response to recent poor form but also a step in addressing broader issues at the club. Chief Executive Patrick Stewart, while welcoming Ferguson back, stressed that "the issues we are facing run deeper than the manager." This sentiment echoes his previous comments following Rangers’ shock Scottish Cup defeat by second-tier Queen’s Park. Despite supporting Clement last week, the consecutive home losses were the final straw. Stewart explained, "The team’s response following their early exit from the Scottish Cup was a cause for deep concern, leading the board to conclude that action had to be taken now." The club is currently undergoing an "ongoing football review" to address these deeper issues, and talks are ongoing with San Francisco 49ers’ investment wing for a potential takeover expected to be completed between April and June.
A Familiar Coaching Team
The new coaching team brings a wealth of experience and a deep connection to the club. Neil McCann, 50, has managed Dundee and Inverness Caledonian Thistle, and he and Ferguson were part of the Rangers teams that won two domestic trebles. McCann has nine winners’ medals from his playing days at Ibrox, including three top-flight titles. Billy Dodds, 56, was Ross County’s assistant and later managed Inverness, having won all three major domestic honors once with Rangers. Allan McGregor, 43, had two spells at Rangers and won 13 medals with the club, including 42 Scotland caps. McGregor’s first spell at Rangers coincided with Ferguson’s second stint, and he left the club as a player in 2023. This trio, combined with their 97 international caps, brings a strong sense of familiarity and expertise to the coaching staff.
Immediate Challenges and Upcoming Fixtures
Ferguson’s first game in charge will be an away fixture against Kilmarnock on Wednesday, 26 February, at Rugby Park. This match will be a litmus test for the new management team and the players’ response to the changes. Following the Kilmarnock game, Rangers will face Motherwell at home on Saturday, 28 February, at 15:00. The club will then play both legs of their Europa League last-16 tie with Jose Mourinho’s Fenerbahce, with the first leg on 6 March and the return leg at Ibrox a week later. An away league game against Celtic, the current league leaders, is scheduled before the March international break. The next Old Firm fixture, at Celtic Park on 16 March, will be a crucial test for Ferguson and his team.
A Club in Transition
The appointment of Ferguson and his coaching team is just one part of a broader transformation at Rangers. The club is committed to addressing the underlying issues that have led to recent struggles. Patrick Stewart’s comments highlight the club’s determination to not only improve on the pitch but also to ensure sustainable success off it. The potential takeover by San Francisco 49ers’ investment wing is a sign of the club’s ambition to secure a stable and prosperous future. Stewart’s statement, "We appreciate him and his team stepping into the role at this difficult time," underscores the club’s gratitude for Ferguson’s willingness to take on this challenge.
Fans’ Reactions and Community Engagement
The appointment of Barry Ferguson has been met with mixed reactions from Rangers supporters. Many fans are hopeful that his deep knowledge of the club and the players will bring a much-needed boost to the team’s morale and performance. Others, however, are wary of the temporary nature of the appointment and the broader issues that the club needs to address. The BBC has invited fans to share their thoughts on the latest developments, reflecting the club’s commitment to engaging with its fan base and ensuring that their voices are heard. As Rangers navigate this transitional period, the support and engagement of the fans will be crucial in driving the club forward.
