Barry Ferguson has backed Derek McInnes to succeed at Rangers, insisting the criticism after three games is premature and that McInnes is exactly the right man for the job. Writing in his column, Ferguson said McInnes is fully aware of the demands and expectations at Ibrox, unlike some previous managers, and is not trying to hide from them.
McInnes's Honest Reaction to Hibs Defeat
Ferguson praised McInnes's response to Sunday's home defeat to Hibernian, where he agreed with supporters that Rangers should be better and shared their frustrations over one title in 15 years. Ferguson said he likes the honesty and believes it is the best approach.
McInnes, who took over at Rangers this summer, knew there would be a reaction to a sticky start, and in some places an overreaction. Ferguson noted that McInnes had a similar task at Hearts last summer, where he wanted players from other teams to hate visiting Tynecastle, and achieved that quickly.
Restoring Fear Factor at Ibrox
Ferguson stressed that no player in the country should look forward to going to Ibrox. The experience should feel like an ordeal, with pressure and intensity from the moment they arrive. Ferguson said he wanted the same during his own time in charge and can tell McInnes feels the same way.
Despite the poor start, Ferguson believes McInnes has earned the right to take on the challenge, describing him as a quality manager and a genuine football man. He pointed to the ongoing transfer activity, with PSV Eindhoven winger Couhaib Driouech set to become McInnes's 10th signing of the summer, and chairman Andrew Cavenagh telling shareholders that another four or five arrivals could follow before the window closes in three weeks.
Players Must Take Responsibility
Ferguson said the players must accept their share of the blame and be determined to improve. He called for full and frank discussions in the dressing room and demanded more from those wearing the jersey. He noted that the last 20 minutes of the Hibs game showed the right approach, with wave after wave of attacks, but Hibs defended brilliantly and took their chance on the counter-attack.
Rangers have the chance to bounce back against Jagiellonia Bialystok in the Europa League on Thursday night. Ferguson urged the team to make it a horrible experience for the Polish side and secure progression. The rebuild will continue, but for now, Ibrox must become a place where only Rangers players feel at home.
