A Familiar Face at Ibrox
Barry Ferguson, a beloved figure in Rangers’ history, has returned to the helm of the club as interim manager, alongside fellow former players Neil McCann, Billy Dodds, and Allan McGregor, as well as Issame Charai, who previously assisted the now-sacked Philippe Clement. Ferguson’s appointment comes at a critical juncture for Rangers, currently 13 points behind Premiership leaders Celtic and facing a crucial Europa League last-16 tie against Fenerbahce. As a player and captain, Ferguson’s career with Rangers was marked by success, including 15 trophies. His return to the club, which feels like a homecoming, is filled with both nostalgia and hope. However, his coaching experience is limited, and the club’s board is under significant pressure to get results.
The Need for Excitement
Former Rangers defender Maurice Ross, speaking on the BBC’s Scottish football podcast, believes that Ferguson’s presence will inject a much-needed boost of excitement and energy into the club. Ross noted the lack of Rangers people and the prevalence of suits in the building over the past few months, which has contributed to a sense of disconnection. Ferguson, with his storied past and charismatic persona, is seen as a "lightning rod," capable of reinvigorating the spirit and setting high standards. "It will give a bit of excitement, a bit of energy back into the building again," Ross said. "It feels like they’re going back to the people that were in the building when Rangers were successful. And that comes with behaviours, attitudes, and certain standard setting."
Cultural Reset and Authority
The appointment of Ferguson and his team can be seen as a cultural reset for Rangers. Jordan Campbell, a football reporter for The Athletic, points out that since Steven Gerrard’s departure, the club has lacked a sense of authority. The turnover in key roles, including chief executives and sporting directors, has left a void that Ferguson’s presence might help to fill. "I think Ferguson coming in gives that authority," Campbell said. "There’s been a lack of it since Gerrard left, and the appointment might serve as a short-term culture shock that could be effective." The familiarity and respect that Ferguson commands among the players and staff could help establish a more cohesive and motivated environment, essential for turning the tide in the remainder of the season.
The Risk of an Unproven Manager
Despite the potential benefits, Ferguson’s appointment is not without risks. His last coaching role was an unsuccessful stint at Alloa Athletic, and he has never managed a team above League One. This limited experience raises questions about his ability to handle the pressure and demands of a top-flight club like Rangers. Campbell acknowledges this, stating, "When you speak to people behind the scenes, since Gerrard left, there’s been a lack of authority at the club. You think of the amount of turnover there’s been, with chief executives, sporting directors, they’ve not even replaced some of them." The board’s decision to bring in Ferguson can be viewed as an "easy win" to appease fans, but the lack of high-level managerial experience is a significant concern. Let’s not pretend that being a good footballer automatically makes a good manager.
Support from the Team
Ferguson is not alone in this challenging role. His team, which includes former Rangers players Neil McCann, Billy Dodds, and Allan McGregor, brings a wealth of club knowledge and experience. McCann, in particular, is noted for his coaching capabilities and could provide valuable support. The familiarity and respect that these individuals command among the squad could be crucial in rallying the team and improving morale. This collective knowledge of the club’s values and traditions could help instill a sense of pride and determination, essential for reviving the club’s fortunes in the league and Europe.
Looking to the Future
While Ferguson’s interim appointment is a short-term solution, it is a step that the club hopes will lead to more significant changes. The board’s decision to rely on Rangers’ alumni signals a return to the roots and a focus on internal leadership. The upcoming Europa League tie against Fenerbahce presents a significant test for the interim managers. Success in this fixture could provide a much-needed morale boost and demonstrate the team’s potential under new leadership. However, the long-term future of the club remains uncertain, and the board will need to carefully consider their next managerial appointment to ensure sustained success. For now, the hope is that Ferguson and his team can provide the spark needed to rekindle Rangers’ winning spirit and set the stage for a brighter future.
