Alious
Barry Ferguson has rung the changes for Rangers’ crucial Europa League quarter-final second leg against Athletic Club, but his decision to start Liam Kelly in goal has sparked debate ahead of the showdown in Bilbao.
The Ibrox side heads into the tie finely balanced after a gritty 0-0 draw in Glasgow last week, a match that saw them go down to 10 men just 13 minutes in following Robin Propper’s red card. Despite that disadvantage, Rangers held their own, keeping the Spanish side at bay to give themselves a fighting chance at San Mames Barria.
Facing a formidable Athletic Club outfit featuring stars like Inaki and Nico Williams, Ferguson has understandably reshuffled his lineup from the frustrating 2-2 draw against Aberdeen. That result saw Rangers fall two goals behind before Ianis Hagi salvaged a point, but the performance raised concerns — not least with the display of goalkeeper Liam Kelly.
The 29-year-old’s showing at Pittodrie left much to be desired, and many expected Jack Butland to be restored between the sticks for such a pivotal European fixture. Yet Ferguson has stuck with Kelly, a choice that could haunt him if the pressure cooker atmosphere in Bilbao proves too much for the under-fire keeper.
Ferguson’s other changes to the squad are more straightforward. Fringe players Findlay Curtis, Danilo, and Oscar Cortes have made way after underwhelming showings, while experienced campaigners like captain James Tavernier, Vaclav Cerny, Cyriel Dessers, and Hagi have returned to provide steel and creativity.
Still, all eyes will be on the goalkeeping position. Butland, a former England international with big-game experience, seemed the natural pick for a do-or-die European clash — especially with the Scottish Premiership title now all but out of reach, as Celtic pull away with just five league games left.
This Europa League run is now the Light Blues’ best hope of salvaging their season, and Ferguson’s future at the club could hinge on the outcome. The interim manager is reportedly eager to land the job permanently, but such high-stakes gambles — like benching Butland in favor of Kelly — could define how his tenure is remembered.
As Rangers prepare to take the field in Spain, fans will be hoping Ferguson’s trust in Kelly doesn’t backfire in what is arguably the biggest match of their season.
Alious
