Barry Ferguson Responds to Criticisms Over Role at Rangers

Jephthah Nana Adjei Osei - Mensah
By
Barry Ferguson Responds to Criticisms Over Role at Rangers
Barry Ferguson
Barry Ferguson, a Rangers legend and former captain, has recently stepped into the role of interim head coach at Ibrox, taking charge of a team that has been grappling with inconsistency and underwhelming performances in recent seasons. His appointment, announced in late February 2025, comes at a crucial juncture for the club, which has seen its fortunes dip amid a turbulent campaign. Ferguson, who made over 400 appearances for Rangers as a player and lifted multiple trophies, including three Scottish Premier League titles, brings a wealth of experience and a deep connection to the club. However, his lack of extensive managerial experience has sparked debate among fans and pundits alike.
In his first press conference as interim head coach on February 25, 2025, Ferguson addressed the skepticism surrounding his appointment head-on. He acknowledged the criticism but emphasized that his intimate knowledge of Rangers—both its highs and lows—equips him uniquely to guide the current squad through its struggles. Drawing from his playing career, Ferguson pointed to moments of adversity he faced, such as the infamous 2008 incident where he and teammate Allan McGregor were involved in a disciplinary breach while on Scotland duty, which led to significant backlash. He suggested that overcoming such challenges has given him resilience and insight into managing pressure, qualities he believes he can instill in his players.
Ferguson inherits a Rangers squad that, while talented, has been plagued by inconsistency and a lack of cohesion. The team has struggled defensively and failed to capitalize on scoring opportunities, leading to dropped points in the Scottish Premiership and an early exit from European competitions. Captain James Tavernier, a long-serving player and one of the club’s most reliable performers in recent years, has come under scrutiny for his leadership during this rocky period. Ferguson, however, expressed unwavering support for Tavernier in his press conference, describing him as a "key figure" and pledging to work closely with him to restore confidence in the dressing room.
The new head coach also outlined his vision for turning things around at Ibrox. He stressed the importance of returning to the basics: hard work, discipline, and a fighting spirit—values he считает synonymous with Rangers’ identity. Ferguson hinted at tactical adjustments, though he kept specifics under wraps, saying only that he wants the team to play with "intensity and purpose." He also addressed the future, acknowledging the need to blend youth prospects—like the promising academy graduates who have been knocking on the first-team door—with the experience of seasoned players to rebuild a competitive squad.
Ferguson’s managerial resume, while thin, includes a stint at Kelty Hearts, where he achieved promotion from the Scottish Lowland League in 2021, and a brief spell at Alloa Athletic. Critics argue this experience pales in comparison to the demands of managing Rangers, especially under the intense scrutiny of Glasgow football. Yet Ferguson remains undeterred, leaning on his history with the club and his understanding of its passionate fanbase. He admitted that the current squad’s struggles mirror some of the challenges he faced as a player, such as the financial turmoil and relegation to the lower leagues in 2012, from which he helped Rangers recover.
The road ahead won’t be easy. Rangers face a packed schedule, with domestic fixtures piling up and the pressure to close the gap on rivals Celtic in the league standings. Ferguson’s immediate task will be to rally a disheartened squad and reconnect with a frustrated support base. In his press conference, he struck an optimistic tone, promising that his "heart and soul" are in the job and that he’s ready to fight for every point. Whether his experience as a player can translate into success as a manager remains to be seen, but for now, Barry Ferguson is determined to prove that his appointment is more than just a nostalgic gamble—it’s a chance to restore Rangers to their former glory.

Comments

MORE FROM
sports

More From 3Music News

Kunmi Drops Star-Studded Remix of Viral Hit ARIKE Featuring Simi and Mabel
music | entertainment | fashion & lifestyle | culture | BY Aimee Cherry Quartey | July 17th, 2025

Kunmi Drops Star-Studded Remix of Viral Hit ARIKE Featuring Simi and Mabel

After taking the music scene by storm with his breakout hit ARIKE, fast-rising Nigerian artiste Kunmi has officially released a highly anticipated remix and this time, he’s brought in not just one, but two powerhouse voices: Simi and Mabel

Chef Abby Cooks with the Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, in Special Culinary Collaboration
entertainment | fashion & lifestyle | culture | BY Aimee Cherry Quartey | July 17th, 2025

Chef Abby Cooks with the Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, in Special Culinary Collaboration

Renowned Ghanaian-British culinary creative Chef Abby has marked a major milestone in her career by cooking alongside the Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, in a special culinary collaboration that celebrates diversity, culture, and community through food

Stranger Things Unleashes First Trailer for Final Season, Promising an Epic Showdown
entertainment | fashion & lifestyle | culture | BY Aimee Cherry Quartey | July 17th, 2025

Stranger Things Unleashes First Trailer for Final Season, Promising an Epic Showdown

Netflix has finally dropped the highly anticipated first trailer for the fifth and final season of Stranger Things, sending fans into a frenzy as the beloved sci-fi thriller gears up for its most intense and emotional chapter yet

Korede Bello Sweetens the Amapiano Scene with New Single SUGAR
music | entertainment | fashion & lifestyle | culture | BY Aimee Cherry Quartey | July 17th, 2025

Korede Bello Sweetens the Amapiano Scene with New Single SUGAR

Nigerian music star Korede Bello makes a vibrant return with his latest single SUGAR, a refreshing blend of smooth vocals, irresistible melodies, and the upbeat energy of Amapiano

Ayra Starr Signs Global Management Deal with Jay-Z’s Roc Nation
music | entertainment | fashion & lifestyle | culture | BY Aimee Cherry Quartey | July 17th, 2025

Ayra Starr Signs Global Management Deal with Jay-Z’s Roc Nation

Nigerian music star Ayra Starr has taken another major leap in her career, officially signing a global management deal with Jay-Z’s Roc Nation

Drake Closes Out Wireless Festival Takeover with Global Tribute
music | entertainment | fashion & lifestyle | culture | BY Aimee Cherry Quartey | July 14th, 2025

Drake Closes Out Wireless Festival Takeover with Global Tribute

Drake marked the grand finale of his historic three-night headline run at Wireless Festival in Finsbury Park by delivering a heartfelt global ode to fans as his Sunday evening set came to an abrupt close

Naomi Stuns WWE Universe to Become New Women’s World Champion at Evolution 2025
music | entertainment | fashion & lifestyle | culture | BY Aimee Cherry Quartey | July 14th, 2025

Naomi Stuns WWE Universe to Become New Women’s World Champion at Evolution 2025

In a jaw-dropping finale to WWE Evolution 2025, Naomi cashed in her Money in the Bank contract to capture the Women’s World Championship, marking her third title reign and cementing her legacy as one of the most resilient performers in WWE history

Maphya Releases New Single, EVENTUALLY
music | entertainment | fashion & lifestyle | culture | BY Aimee Cherry Quartey | July 14th, 2025

Maphya Releases New Single, EVENTUALLY

Rising Ghanaian artiste Maphya has released a powerful new single titled EVENTUALLY, which dropped on the 11th of this month

DJ Loft And Kojo Manuel Take Signature CAPS AND BASS Party To London
music | entertainment | fashion & lifestyle | culture | BY Aimee Cherry Quartey | July 14th, 2025

DJ Loft And Kojo Manuel Take Signature CAPS AND BASS Party To London

Ghana’s dynamic duo, DJ Loft and hypeman Kojo Manuel, successfully brought their signature party experience, Caps and Bass, to London, UK, this past Sunday, delivering a thrilling night of music, energy, and Ghanaian culture

Ruger Announces Blown Boy Ru UK Tour Stop At O2 Indigo
music | entertainment | fashion & lifestyle | culture | BY Aimee Cherry Quartey | July 14th, 2025

Ruger Announces Blown Boy Ru UK Tour Stop At O2 Indigo

Nigerian star Ruger is set to light up London once again with the announcement of his Blown Boy Ru UK tour, headlining at the prestigious O2 Indigo on September 27th

Ghana Party In The Park 2025 Sell-Out As 20th Anniversary Edition Delivers Cultural Spectacle
music | entertainment | fashion & lifestyle | culture | BY Aimee Cherry Quartey | July 14th, 2025

Ghana Party In The Park 2025 Sell-Out As 20th Anniversary Edition Delivers Cultural Spectacle

The 20th anniversary of Ghana Party in the Park (GPITP) lived up to the hype on Saturday, July 12th, 2025, delivering an unforgettable cultural experience to thousands at Barnet Playing Fields

Vybz Kartel Invites Moliy On STAGE At Wireless Festival
music | entertainment | fashion & lifestyle | culture | BY Aimee Cherry Quartey | July 14th, 2025

Vybz Kartel Invites Moliy On STAGE At Wireless Festival

Legendary dancehall artiste Vybz Kartel made headlines this weekend after bringing out Ghanaian singer Moliy as a surprise guest during his explosive performance at the 2025 Wireless Festival held at Finsbury Park on Sunday, July 13th

More Similar Videos

No similar videos to show related to this post. Explore other sections.