Barry Ferguson’s tenure as Rangers’ interim manager has been nothing short of transformative, and his latest victory over Celtic at Celtic Park only solidifies his credentials as a serious candidate for the permanent managerial role. His tactical acumen, ability to inspire his players, and the effectiveness of his game plan against top opposition have all contributed to a remarkable turnaround in Rangers’ fortunes.
Rangers’ Tactical Shift Under Ferguson
Since taking charge, Ferguson has implemented key tactical adjustments that have dramatically improved Rangers’ performances, particularly in big matches. One of his most notable changes has been moving away from a rigid 4-3-3 formation, opting instead for a more structured and defensively solid approach.
Against Celtic, he deployed a 3-4-2-1 setup, a shape that had already proven successful in Rangers’ impressive Europa League victory over Fenerbahce. This compact formation allowed Rangers to maintain defensive discipline while also pressing effectively in key areas of the pitch. The early stages of the game saw Rangers pin Celtic deep in their own half, setting an aggressive tone that paid off within minutes.
An Explosive Start at Celtic Park
The match couldn’t have started any better for Rangers. Within four minutes, Nicolas Raskin’s glancing header from a James Tavernier corner gave them an early lead, a move that was later identified as a well-rehearsed set-piece designed by Billy Dodds. This goal was a reward for Rangers’ aggressive start, where they played the game entirely in Celtic’s defensive third.
Steven Naismith, analyzing the match on BBC Sportscene, remarked on how unusual this approach was, particularly in a high-stakes derby. “It’s unusual. The first five minutes, or until the first goal, the full game was being played in Celtic’s defensive third,” Naismith said. “What does that do? It sets the tone. It makes Celtic feel ‘we’re under pressure’.”
The relentless pressure forced Celtic onto the back foot, a tactic that has been a hallmark of Ferguson’s approach since taking charge. It was a stark contrast to previous encounters, where Rangers had struggled to impose themselves early in games at Celtic Park.
Celtic’s Possession vs Rangers’ Effectiveness
While Brendan Rodgers’ Celtic team enjoyed 72% possession throughout the match, it was Rangers who made their time on the ball count. Unlike previous encounters where Celtic dominated both possession and chances, Ferguson’s team was structured and compact, ensuring that Celtic’s control of the ball did not translate into meaningful threats.
This efficiency was best demonstrated in Rangers’ ability to capitalize on set-pieces and counter-attacking opportunities. Mohamed Diomande doubled Rangers’ lead before halftime, putting them in a commanding position. Although Celtic managed to claw their way back to 2-2 in the second half, Ferguson’s substitutions and tactical tweaks ensured Rangers maintained their attacking threat.
In the dying moments, young striker Hamza Igamane, who had come on as a substitute, sealed the victory with a composed finish, sending the away fans into raptures. His impact further highlighted Ferguson’s ability to make key in-game decisions that swing matches in his team’s favor.
Praise from Neil Lennon and Tactical Mastery
Former Celtic manager Neil Lennon was among those to heap praise on Rangers, describing their pressing and tactical execution as “outstanding.” Lennon pointed out how Ferguson had anticipated Celtic’s attacking patterns and structured his team accordingly.
Brendan Rodgers, meanwhile, had initially downplayed Ferguson’s influence, stating that Rangers hadn’t changed much since Philippe Clement’s departure. However, this result, coupled with Rangers’ performances in Europe, suggests otherwise. Ferguson has instilled a resilience and structure that was previously lacking, and his tactical awareness has made Rangers a far more dangerous side.
Barry Ferguson’s Future as Rangers Manager
Following this significant victory, speculation has intensified over whether Ferguson will be given the managerial role on a permanent basis. Steven Naismith, speaking from experience, noted that interim managers often have the opportunity to stake their claim for the job permanently.
“I wouldn’t be surprised,” Naismith said. “I was in a similar situation at Hearts when I got interim. It is an opportunity for him. He doesn’t know what is going to happen with a takeover or whatever that may be. All he can do is say ‘I am up for this job, I am good enough to do it and I have the understanding, backroom team and knowledge of the club’.”
Ferguson has certainly made a strong case. His ability to set up his team for big matches, his attention to tactical detail, and his deep understanding of the club’s identity all work in his favor. However, as Naismith pointed out, this is only the beginning. Ferguson will need to prove that he can secure results against other tough opposition, including away trips to Edinburgh clubs and Aberdeen.
Journalist Tam Cowan has suggested that Ferguson is set to be appointed as Rangers’ permanent manager following his string of impressive results. According to reports, Rangers’ board is seriously considering offering him the role full-time, especially given the fan support and the team’s dramatic improvement in performances.
What’s Next for Rangers Under Ferguson?
With Rangers still competing in multiple competitions and pushing for silverware, Ferguson has a crucial few weeks ahead. Maintaining the momentum from this victory will be key, as consistency will ultimately determine whether he secures the job permanently.
If he continues to deliver results like the one at Celtic Park, it will be hard for Rangers’ board to ignore the calls for him to stay in charge. His tenure so far has reinvigorated the squad, reconnected the team with the fan base, and, most importantly, restored a sense of belief that Rangers can compete at the highest level.
Only time will tell if Ferguson is given the job permanently, but one thing is certain—his impact on Rangers has already been immense.