Rangers Appoint Barry Ferguson as Interim Manager After Philippe Clement's Sacking

Image credits: Andrew Milligan/PA

Rangers have appointed their former captain Barry Ferguson as the interim manager until the end of the season, following the sacking of Philippe Clement. The Belgian manager's departure came after a 2-0 home defeat to St Mirren, which left the club 13 points behind Celtic in the Premiership. Ferguson, who has previous managerial experience at Clyde, Kelty Hearts, and Alloa, will be joined by coaches Neil McCann, Billy Dodds, and Allan McGregor. The club's chief executive, Patrick Stewart, stated that the issues facing the team run deeper than the manager and that a football review is ongoing to address these problems.

The new coaching team faces a significant challenge in turning around the team's fortunes, with Rangers struggling to break down organized teams who defend deep and with discipline. Clement's inability to win games against teams like St Mirren, Queen's Park, and Kilmarnock ultimately led to his departure. The interim team will need to crack the code of the low block and provide direction and motivation to the players, who have looked hesitant and scared on the pitch. The Europa League campaign, where Rangers will face Fenerbahce next month, provides an opportunity for the team to redeem themselves and make the season relevant again.

The appointment of Ferguson and his team has been seen as a short-term solution, with the club expected to appoint a new permanent manager in the summer. The likes of Steven Gerrard, Sean Dyche, and Derek McInnes have been linked with the vacancy, while Rangers are in talks about a multi-million pound investment by a United States-led consortium. The club's fans will be hoping that the new coaching team can provide a spark and help the team finish the season strongly, despite the challenges they face. The premiership title may be out of reach, but a strong finish and a good run in the Europa League could provide a positive ending to a disappointing season.

The coaching team's experience and knowledge of the club and the league will be crucial in helping the players improve and develop. McCann and Dodds have been outspoken about Rangers' weaknesses, and now they have the opportunity to make a difference on the pitch. The team's performance against Fenerbahce will be a significant test, with the Turkish team boasting a strong squad featuring players like Fred, Filip Kostic, and Edin Dzeko. A win against Fenerbahce would be a massive achievement and could provide a much-needed boost to the team's morale and confidence.

The road ahead will be challenging, but the appointment of Ferguson and his team provides a sense of stability and continuity. The club's fans will be hoping that the new coaching team can help the players regain their form and finish the season on a high note. With the football review ongoing and a new permanent manager expected to be appointed in the summer, the future of Rangers looks uncertain, but the appointment of Ferguson and his team provides a sense of hope and optimism for the remainder of the season.