By Sheryl Ritchie
Interim Rangers boss Barry Ferguson praised his side’s second-half display after a 3-1 win over Dundee United at Ibrox on Wednesday evening, describing the victory as a “good three points” and a sign of the squad’s adaptability.
Rangers fell behind midway through the first half but responded strongly, with Ferguson revealing that tactical tweaks at halftime were key to breaking down a determined United side that came to frustrate the hosts.
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“I had to change things halfway through the game,” Ferguson said in his post-match press conference. “I knew Dundee United would try to sit in and frustrate us, so we had a chat and tweaked things at halftime. I felt that the second goal was key and the second-half performance was hugely improved.”
The result marks Ferguson’s second home win since stepping in as interim manager in February, and he made a point of defending striker Cyriel Dessers, who scored a landmark 50th Rangers goal on the night. The 30-year-old has come under fire from sections of the support and in the media this season, but Ferguson insisted the criticism has been unfair.
“Working with him every day, I see how much effort he puts in on the training field,” he said. “He gives it everything.”
Dessers also converted a 73rd-minute penalty—after captain James Tavernier handed him the ball—a moment Ferguson admitted gave him pause but ultimately praised.
“I was worried I might regret the decision,” Ferguson joked. “But 28 goals this season is a great return.”
The manager was also full of praise for Jack Butland, who returned between the posts in place of Liam Kelly, who has been nursing a minor back issue. Ferguson was clear that Butland’s return was part of a planned rotation, and highlighted the goalkeeper’s mental strength during a recent spell on the bench.
“It’s been a tough period for him but he has a first-class attitude,” he said. “I had to be honest with him—those are never easy conversations. You could see how disappointed he was, but you also saw his quality tonight. Next season, we’ll have two top keepers pushing each other for the number one spot.”
On Vaclav Cerny, who received a warm ovation when substituted, Ferguson refused to be drawn on speculation about the winger’s future. The 27-year-old has been linked with a move away from Ibrox.
“He was just tired,” Ferguson laughed when questioned on the decision to withdraw Cerny in the eightieth minute. “We’ve got a great relationship, and he’s a top operator. That’s all I’ll say for now.”
When asked about his own future, Ferguson kept his focus firmly on the season finale against Hibernian at Easter Road this Saturday.
“I’ve really enjoyed it, but there’s still one game to go. I knew it wouldn’t be perfect, but I was willing to take the challenge on. It’s been tough, but a privilege. We’ll finish the season and see what comes next.”
As the Ibrox crowd chanted his name late in the game, Ferguson admitted the emotion of the moment hit home.
“It got to me a bit. I’ve been part of this club since I was seven. I’ll probably leave with more grey hairs and wrinkles—but it’s been an honour.”
Rangers finish the season as they travel to Edinburgh to face Hibs in a 12:30 pm kick off at Easter Road.