Rangers’ interim manager Barry Ferguson is under fire from fans after an embarrassing post-match interview following the team’s 2-0 loss to Hibernian at Ibrox. The defeat marks Rangers’ fifth straight home loss, a worrying trend that has left supporters questioning not only the squad’s mentality but Ferguson’s leadership as well.
The match saw a composed and organized Hibernian side outplay a disjointed Rangers team. Dylan Levitt opened the scoring following a calamitous mistake by goalkeeper Jack Butland, who failed to clear a back pass under pressure. The second came through Martin Boyle, who latched onto a defensive lapse and finished with ease past a stunned Ibrox crowd.
Post-match, Ferguson’s interview did little to calm the storm. The former Rangers captain appeared dejected and at times emotional, bluntly stating,
“That’s not a Rangers team. That’s not the club I played for.” He went on to criticize the players’ lack of composure, mentality, and character, particularly in big domestic games. “There are individuals in that dressing room who are letting the badge down,” he added.
His comments, meant perhaps to fire up the dressing room, instead sparked widespread anger among fans who believe Ferguson himself has failed to impose a clear vision or tactical identity on the team since taking over. Social media was flooded with reactions, with one supporter writing, “Barry Ferguson talks about standards, but he’s lost five home games in a row. Where’s the accountability?” Another added, “It’s the same tired excuses week after week. This isn’t leadership—it’s deflection.”
The reaction was not limited to the digital world. Some Rangers fans remained in their seats after the final whistle, booing the players and chanting for change. Others directed their frustration at the director’s box, calling for clarity on the club’s managerial situation, with Ferguson still considered an interim appointment.
Hibernian, meanwhile, continued their impressive form under interim manager David Gray. The win extended their unbeaten run to 17 games and moved them within striking distance of third place. Their supporters were in full voice at the final whistle, serenading Gray while Rangers fans watched on in stunned silence.
One particularly controversial decision that drew criticism was Ferguson’s continued backing of underperforming players such as despite repeated errors. Reports now suggest Butland may be dropped for Rangers’ upcoming Europa League clash with Athletic Bilbao. Ferguson hinted at changes in his interview, saying, “Some of these lads won’t play on Thursday. That’s a guarantee.”
Despite the talk of changes, fans remain skeptical. Many believe Ferguson’s public airing of grievances points to a man out of ideas and out of time. The lack of tactical cohesion, poor results, and now this explosive interview have many wondering if he is truly the right man to lead the team forward—interim or not.
Club sources remain tight-lipped about Ferguson’s long-term future, but pressure is mounting. With Rangers now trailing Celtic by a widening margin in the title race, and European qualification at risk, decisive action may soon be necessary from the board.
As the dust settles from yet another disappointing night at Ibrox, one thing is clear: Barry Ferguson’s honeymoon period is well and truly over. Unless he can rally his team and produce results quickly—starting with a high-stakes European tie—his tenure may be remembered not for a revival, but for a painful unraveling at the club he once captained with pride.
