Barry Ferguson Confident Rangers Can Overcome Celtic in Pivotal Derby
In the hushed atmosphere of Rangers' museum, Barry Ferguson reflects on his recent visit to the sporting fortress just yards away across the car park. "I attended the last home game against Hearts," revealed the club's former captain and interim manager. "It transported me back to the Fenerbahce match last year. The atmosphere was absolutely electric."
Come Sunday lunchtime, that electricity is expected to intensify dramatically. The arrival of Celtic at Ibrox always represents a high-octane occasion, but the decibel levels inside the stadium for this particular clash could prove hazardous to unprotected eardrums.
Title Race Momentum and Opponent Vulnerability
The fact that Rangers remain firmly in the title race, having appeared to be fading last October, provides one compelling reason why home supporters will amplify the noise. Another factor is the perceived vulnerability in their opponents.
A Celtic side that has already suffered seven league defeats from twenty-seven matches this season will also be missing experienced defender Auston Trusty due to suspension. This likely means Benjamin Arthur or Dane Murray partnering Liam Scales in central defense.
In Ferguson's assessment, with home advantage on their side, this is a situation head coach Danny Rohl will look to exploit by pairing Ryan Naderi with Youssef Chermiti upfront, just as he did to considerable effect in the 4-2 victory over Hearts.
"I believe Rangers' approach on Sunday will be to go and attack Celtic," Ferguson stated. "Who knows what the team selection will be? But if you deploy a front two, you're looking at genuine physical presence there. I wouldn't be surprised if that's the direction the manager takes."
Tactical Flexibility Under Danny Rohl
Under Rohl's guidance, Rangers have developed greater adaptability in their formations, consequently becoming less predictable to opponents.
"What I appreciate about him is his flexibility," Ferguson explained. "I think that's essential. Too many managers claim they have Plan A, but if Plan A fails, they simply try to execute Plan A better. Rohl will change formations whether it's a back three or back four, or whether he plays one or two strikers."
"You must make the opposition think. Sometimes when you have a rigid playing style, you become easy to set up against. I'm certain several teams are unsure how he'll approach games. Flexibility is crucial, and I've been genuinely impressed by him."
Rohl lost his first Old Firm derby at Hampden but secured victory in his second at Celtic Park at the turn of the year. With the final stretch of the season approaching, the value of another triumph over Martin O'Neill's side, this time at Ibrox on Sunday, would be difficult to overstate.
Title Implications and Race Dynamics
"I don't believe beating Celtic alone will secure the title, but it would represent a significant statement," Ferguson emphasized. "I always respect opponents. Looking across at Celtic, they have an experienced manager who understands the game thoroughly. They still possess excellent players, genuinely good players. But if Rangers perform to their capabilities, I believe they can win."
Such an outcome would substantially shorten the odds on Rangers claiming their first Premiership title since 2021. However, Ferguson disagrees with former teammate Kris Boyd's assertion that Sunday's loser will be eliminated from the championship race.
"I don't agree with that perspective," he added. "I've heard numerous people express that view. I anticipate further twists and turns. This will undoubtedly go down to the wire. Whether four teams or two remain in contention for the final match, I'm uncertain, but it will definitely be decided at the last moment."
"I've experienced several last-day scenarios. They're nail-biting affairs, but I would accept that situation given where Rangers were positioned. The club was in a difficult place in October, and credit must go to the manager, staff, and most importantly the players who were written off. If you had told me when Danny arrived that Rangers would be in this position, I would have looked at you as if you had horns growing from your head."
January Signings and Final Push
Ferguson maintains increasing confidence that his former club will have the final say in the championship. To varying degrees, he believes the four players Rohl recruited in January have demonstrated they can make the decisive difference in this tightly contested season.
"I always focus on midfield. I appreciate Tochi Chukwuani," Ferguson noted. "I like Tuur Rommens. Ryan Naderi remains a work in progress, but I value the attributes he possesses. Andreas Skov Olsen has been somewhat slow to start, but there's no questioning his ability. They've certainly enhanced the squad's quality."
"It's crucial when entering a transfer window that you strengthen both the team and the squad. There will be additional twists and turns, but what a transformation four months has brought for the club. The only minor concern would be recent away form in the last three games, but ultimately, the title remains in Rangers' hands."
