Barry Ferguson, a former captain of Blackburn Rovers and a Glasgow Rangers legend, is reportedly being lined up for the managerial role at Ibrox following the sacking of Philippe Clement.
The decision comes after Rangers’ disappointing defeat to St Mirren, which proved to be the final straw for the club’s board.
Ferguson’s Potential Return to Rangers
According to reports, Ferguson, who spent time in the English Premier League with Blackburn Rovers, will be offered the opportunity to take charge until the end of the season. Discussions between Ferguson and Rangers’ decision-makers are ongoing, and a deal could be finalised within the next 24 hours.
“A decision is expected imminently, with Rangers keen to bring in a steady hand to lead the club through the remainder of the campaign,” reports the Daily Record.
Ferguson’s Time at Blackburn Rovers
Ferguson made the move to Blackburn Rovers in August 2003 for £7.5 million, joining the club from Rangers. Everton had also shown interest in him at the time, but he opted for a switch to Ewood Park. He made his debut against Liverpool in September of that year and scored his first goal for Blackburn in a League Cup tie against the same opposition.
In July 2004, then-manager Graeme Souness appointed Ferguson as club captain, recognising his leadership qualities. However, a significant setback came when he suffered a kneecap fracture in a Premier League match against Newcastle United, which kept him out of action for an extended period.
“The intensity and ambition at Rangers was unmatched. Playing in the Premiership and competing in a Lancashire derby was nothing compared to the Old Firm,” Ferguson later admitted after requesting a transfer back to Ibrox in January 2005.
Managerial Experience
Since retiring from playing, Ferguson has held various managerial positions, including a spell at Clyde in 2014, where he led the team to the promotion play-offs. He later took charge at Kelty Hearts, guiding them into the SPFL for the first time in their history. His most recent stint was with Alloa Athletic, though he stepped down in 2022 following a difficult run of form.
What This Means for Rangers
With Rangers currently in need of stability, Ferguson’s experience at both Blackburn Rovers and Ibrox could prove invaluable. While the club eyes a permanent managerial solution in the long term, Ferguson’s potential appointment as interim boss offers familiarity and leadership as Rangers seek to finish the season strongly.
Writer’s View
Ferguson’s deep connection with Rangers and his experience in English football make him an intriguing candidate for the job. His leadership at Blackburn Rovers demonstrated his ability to handle pressure at the highest level, and his managerial career has shown flashes of tactical awareness. If he takes the job, the key challenge will be to stabilise Rangers and instil belief in a squad that has struggled for consistency this season.
