AliousRangers would be wise to take lessons from clubs south of the border before rushing into a decision on Barry Ferguson’s long-term future—particularly from Manchester United’s recent managerial missteps.
United’s appointment of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer offers a striking warning. After a sensational start as interim boss, including a dramatic comeback win over Paris Saint-Germain, the club handed him a permanent deal. However, despite a promising run, Solskjaer ultimately fell short, and his tenure ended in disappointment. Similarly, Erik ten Hag was kept on after winning the FA Cup, in part due to fan sentiment, only to be dismissed soon after following a poor start to the new season.
While Ferguson’s recent achievements—guiding Rangers to the Europa League quarter-finals and a first Old Firm win at Celtic Park in five years—are commendable, they don’t yet guarantee long-term success. For now, any talk of a permanent contract remains premature.
A Divided Debate Over Ferguson’s Future**
This uncertainty has sparked debate among former Rangers players, with Andy Halliday and Craig Moore holding contrasting views on the matter.
Halliday urges caution, arguing that Ferguson’s ability to beat elite opponents like Fenerbahce and Celtic must be weighed against Rangers’ struggles in less glamorous fixtures, such as their home defeat to Motherwell. He stresses that Ferguson must prove he can secure consistent results, particularly against teams that sit deep and force Rangers to break them down.
Moore, on the other hand, is fully convinced. Speaking on *Go Radio*, the former Rangers captain stated:
*”I would take Barry Ferguson over Steven Gerrard or Rafael Benitez any day!”*
Other Candidates in the Mix
While Ferguson is making a strong case for the job, Rangers’ new investors—led by the San Francisco 49ers—are reportedly considering other high-profile names.
Steven Gerrard, who delivered Rangers’ first league title in a decade, is said to be open to a return. Meanwhile, Rafa Benitez boasts the most accomplished CV of any candidate, with Champions League, Europa League, and La Liga titles to his name. However, the 64-year-old’s recent stints at Everton and Celta Vigo were underwhelming, casting doubt on his suitability.
As of last week, Rangers had yet to formally approach Benitez, but his name remains in the conversation.
Ferguson Strengthens His Case**
For now, Ferguson’s stock continues to rise. Former Rangers midfielder Stephen Thompson believes the Celtic win has massively bolstered his chances:
*”Another notch on Barry Ferguson’s belt. He’ll be absolutely delighted with the result, and make no mistake, he wants this job long-term. A lot of people are questioning whether he’ll get it, but guiding Rangers into the Europa League quarter-finals and winning at Celtic Park has put him in a much stronger position than he was a week ago.”*
The next few months will be crucial in determining Ferguson’s fate. If he continues to deliver results, Rangers’ hierarchy will face an increasingly difficult decision.
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