Barry Ferguson’s Emotional Ibrox Return as Rangers Host Motherwell
Barry Ferguson is set for a heartfelt return to Ibrox this weekend as Rangers welcome Motherwell in the Scottish Premiership.
The former club captain made a winning start to his tenure on Wednesday night (26 February), guiding Rangers to a dramatic 4-2 comeback victory over Kilmarnock. Despite an early 2-0 deficit, Ferguson’s side battled back, giving the new manager an early taste of both the challenges and triumphs of his new role.
Rangers vs Motherwell: Match Preview
Rangers began life after Philippe Clement on a positive note, overcoming a nervy start to take control against Derek McInnes’ Kilmarnock. However, Ferguson’s men endured an early scare, conceding twice before halftime.
Vaclav Cerny pulled one back before the break, and Cyriel Dessers’ second-half brace turned the match around before Nedim Bajrami sealed the win. Now, the Light Blues will be looking to build on that momentum as they aim to finish the domestic season strongly, with second place in the league all but secured.
Meanwhile, Motherwell ended a dreadful six-game losing streak across all competitions with a much-needed 2-1 victory over Dundee on Wednesday. Dan Casey’s brace ensured Stuart Kettlewell’s men got back to winning ways, keeping their hopes of a top-six finish alive.
The last meeting between the sides in December ended in a 2-2 draw, with Rangers needing a second-half double from Hamza Igamane to salvage a point after trailing by two goals.
Recent Form (Scottish Premiership)
- Rangers: WLWWW
- Motherwell: WLLLL
Head-to-Head Results
- Motherwell 2-2 Rangers (December 2024)
- Motherwell 1-2 Rangers (November 2024 – League Cup)
- Rangers 2-1 Motherwell (August 2024)
- Rangers 1-2 Motherwell (March 2024)
- Motherwell 0-2 Rangers (December 2023)
Team News
Ferguson may consider changes following the shaky start against Kilmarnock. Central defenders Robin Propper and Clinton Nsiala received criticism for their performances, which could see Rafael Fernandes, the club’s only January signing, come into the lineup.
Bajrami’s impactful goal off the bench might earn him a starting spot, while Ridvan Yilmaz could also return to the XI after staying at Rangers despite interest from Besiktas. Dessers is expected to continue leading the attack after reaching 20 goals for the season.
Motherwell, meanwhile, are dealing with several injuries, with key players such as Paul McGinn, Josh Vale, and Archie Mair having missed recent matches.
Predicted Lineups
Rangers: Butland; Tavernier, Fernandes, Propper, Yilmaz; Diomande, Raskin, Cerny, Bajrami, Hagi; Dessers.
Motherwell: Balcombe; O’Donnell, Gordon, Casey, Sparrow; Paton, Halliday, Miller, Thompson, Slattery; Maswanhise.
How to Watch
The match kicks off at 3pm on Saturday, 1 March, but will not be televised live on Sky Sports or Premier Sports. However, BBC Radio Scotland will provide updates via their Sportsound program.
Prediction: Rangers 4-1 Motherwell
Returning to the familiar surroundings of Ibrox, Ferguson will feel right at home, and the Rangers faithful will be behind him. Their attacking firepower should overwhelm a struggling Motherwell side that has won just once in their last seven matches.
Defensive frailties remain a concern for Rangers, especially with potential changes at the back, meaning Jack Butland may have to step up early on. However, the quality in attack should see them comfortably secure three points, as Ferguson looks to cement his authority and shape his team for the remainder of the season.
