“Butland’s Blunders Divide Opinion as Rangers’ Europa League Hopes Hang by a Thread Before Bilbao Clash!”” Time to Swing the Axe? Should Barry Ferguson Finally Drop Him?”

Should Barry Ferguson Drop Jack Butland?

The debate over Jack Butland’s place in Rangers’ starting XI is heating up after his latest high-profile mistake. While his talent remains unquestioned, his form is under intense scrutiny.

Keith Jackson believes the issue is delicate. While Butland is clearly Rangers’ most skilled goalkeeper, his recent blunders have become worryingly frequent and difficult to justify. With the crucial Europa League clash against Athletic Bilbao looming, Ferguson may need to have some difficult conversations—especially with veteran Allan McGregor waiting in the wings.

Michael Gannon echoes that concern, pointing out that the goalkeeper situation is becoming a real headache for Ferguson. Still, he suggests that Butland’s pedigree and experience might warrant allowing him to play through this rough patch rather than pulling him out mid-slump.

Andy Newport, however, thinks trust has been broken. He argues that Butland can no longer be relied upon to do the basics and that it’s time for Liam Kelly to be handed a shot at proving his reliability under pressure.

Fraser Wilson acknowledges that this might be Ferguson’s toughest call yet. Despite being the most seasoned and technically adept goalkeeper at the club, Butland looked rattled throughout Saturday’s match. A mental reset might be in order, but removing your No.1 before such a crucial fixture would be a huge and risky decision.


Do Rangers Stand a Chance Against Bilbao on Thursday?

Keith Jackson remains hopeful, stating that this Rangers team has shown time and again how much they thrive under the Thursday night lights of European football. Still, he cautions that form and momentum favour Bilbao, with Rangers staring down a potential sixth consecutive home loss.

Michael Gannon warns that a repeat of the defensive chaos seen against Dundee and Hibs will be fatal. However, Rangers’ pace and threat on the break gives them a fighting chance.

Andy Newport feels that, with Rangers’ unpredictable nature, anything is possible. They’re certainly capable of rising to the occasion, but lapses like Saturday’s could be punished heavily—especially with John Souttar and Mohamed Diomande sidelined.

Fraser Wilson is less optimistic. With key suspensions and poor home form, he fears the European journey may be nearing its end. Even in their dramatic result against Fenerbahce, the performance left plenty to be desired.



Is Greg Taylor’s Celtic Career Winding Down?

Keith Jackson sees Taylor’s role fading into a supporting one. With Jeffrey Schlupp now Brendan Rodgers’ preferred option at left-back and Taylor already planning his exit, any remaining appearances are likely to be brief cameos.

Michael Gannon agrees that Taylor may serve primarily as backup, but believes he deserves the chance to finish on a high and receive recognition from fans for his service.

Andy Newport points out that Schlupp hasn’t been at his best in recent matches. If that continues, Taylor might force his way back in and prove his worth once more.

Fraser Wilson thinks the door isn’t fully closed. While Schlupp had taken command of the position, Taylor’s reliability and experience might tempt Rodgers to turn to him again during the season’s critical final stretch.



Is David Gray in the Running for Manager of the Year?

Keith Jackson says Gray deserves praise for his turnaround at Hibs but believes the award is Brendan Rodgers’ to lose—especially if Celtic secure a domestic treble.

Michael Gannon adds that while Rodgers is the frontrunner, Gray’s efforts at Hibs have been nothing short of remarkable and deserve serious consideration.

Andy Newport acknowledges that Hibs should never have slumped as badly as they did, but credits Gray for righting the ship. However, Rodgers’ success on multiple fronts would still edge him out.

Fraser Wilson strongly supports Gray’s candidacy for at least a shortlist. Guiding Hibs from the foot of the table to third place, leapfrogging Aberdeen in the process, is no small feat—especially under immense pressure. His composed leadership and the team’s response have been inspirational.