Barry Ferguson’s Rangers are ready for a big trip to Fenerbahce in the Europa League on Thursday.
Ferguson was named as caretaker Rangers manager until the end of the season after Philippe Clement was fired at Ibrox.
With the Europa League regarded by many as the final hope for silverware, the Bears must overcome yet another humiliating defeat to Motherwell last time out when they go to Turkey.
Michael Stewart highlights Ferguson’s choice at Rangers.
Ferguson has only overseen two games since taking over as temporary manager at Ibrox, winning 4-2 against Kilmarnock and losing 2-1 to Motherwell on Saturday (1 March).
However, there is greater focus on the Europa League this season, given the Gers have already been defeated in the League Cup, knocked out of the Scottish Cup, and eliminated from the title chase.
If the Light Blues are to do anything this season, it must be in Europe.
With that in mind, Ferguson faces a difficult week ahead, with the away leg on Thursday (6 March) and the return match at Ibrox on March 13.
On the Premier Sports Podcast (3 March), Michael Stewart stated: “Barry Ferguson has massive decisions to make with this defence in particular.
“By the way, he needs a bit of luck here because if he picks some of these guys who aren’t 100 per cent fit, he needs a bit of luck to get through the game.”
Rangers face a tough Europa League test.
It’s fair that the Rangers hierarchy wanted to bring in someone who was familiar with the environment and the expected standards.
Ferguson’s appointment, however, has been criticized for his lack of relevant expertise during a season in which the Light Blues must perform at their best in order to win.
Too often this season, the Gers have displayed a lack of organization, particularly in front of their own goal, and they cannot afford to repeat these mistakes against Fenerbahce on Thursday.
Furthermore, while John Souttar is likely to be available for selection, hurrying him back too soon to play the full 90 minutes might be as detrimental to Rangers.
It’s fair to say that the manager doesn’t have the easiest of situations to cope with going into the game, and it will need a strong performance from his team to get through to the home tie in a comfortable position.
However, given the prevailing consensus that the Gers would require some luck to win this game, Ferguson’s players may be able to utilize this to their advantage, relieving some of the burden on their shoulders.
