Rangers Enter a New Era Under Barry Ferguson at Kilmarnock
Rangers embark on a fresh chapter in the Scottish Premiership as they begin life after Philippe Clement with a trip to Kilmarnock.
Barry Ferguson has returned to Ibrox as interim manager, taking charge until the end of the season. His first test comes at Rugby Park on 26 February, where the Gers face a midweek clash against the ninth-placed side. A victory would ease the pressure on Ferguson and help set the tone for a strong finish to the campaign.
Ferguson Sticks with Clement’s Final Lineup
Despite stepping into the managerial role, Ferguson has opted for continuity, naming an unchanged starting XI and bench from the side that suffered a disappointing defeat to St Mirren under Clement last weekend.
This decision places the onus on the same group of players to step up and deliver a performance that is in stark contrast to the one that sealed Clement’s fate.
Jack Butland remains in goal, with captain James Tavernier at right-back. Clinton Nsiala, who endured a tough outing against St Mirren, retains his spot alongside Robin Propper in central defense. Jefte starts at left-back, while Mohamed Diomande and Nico Raskin control the midfield. Vaclav Cerny and Hamza Igamane take up wide positions, with Ianis Hagi supporting Cyriel Dessers in attack.
The club confirmed the lineup on social media 75 minutes before kick-off.
Pride and European Ambitions Still at Stake
Despite Patrick Stewart’s backing of Clement, the former manager’s tenure always seemed on shaky ground, and the St Mirren loss was the final straw.
Rangers have struggled to meet expectations this season, but Ferguson—an iconic figure at the club—now has the task of restoring pride and reconnecting with the supporters.
Fans have become increasingly anxious ahead of games, and recent struggles against teams like Kilmarnock, including a loss under Clement earlier in the season, underline the challenge ahead. However, Rangers responded with a dominant 6-0 win at Ibrox in December, showing their potential.
Beyond domestic football, the upcoming Europa League clash with Jose Mourinho’s Fenerbahce offers excitement, but Ferguson’s immediate priority is getting Rangers back on track and reigniting belief within the squad and fanbase.
