Barry Ferguson has said Derek McInnes must change the mindset at Rangers, just as he attempted to do during his own time in the dugout. McInnes has yet to win a game since his summer move from Hearts and faces a tough task to overturn a 2-1 deficit in Thursday's Europa League third qualifying round tie against Jagiellonia Białystok.
Ferguson's 'Morgue' Memory
Ferguson, who served as interim manager for three months from February 2025, described the atmosphere at the club's Training Centre as a "morgue" when he took over from Philippe Clement. Speaking on the Warm-Up, he said: "The first day I went into the Training Centre, it was like a morgue. It was never like that [when I played]."
He stressed the importance of a positive environment for everyone at the club, not just players. "I had to change that as quickly as possible, you should be going in there with a smile on your face. You should be looking forward to going into your work. I am not just talking about players, I am talking about staff, cleaning ladies, laundry ladies, reception staff, kitchen staff - they are important to me."
Changing the 'Full Place'
Ferguson said he tried to make everyone feel part of it, adding: "I think it's important, that's the way I was brought up at Rangers. I am sure Celtic will be similar. I saw a real disconnect. I tried to make a difference, and hopefully I did."
Asked by Kris Boyd about the biggest challenge facing McInnes, Ferguson replied: "Changing the mindset of the full place. That is what has to be changed. There is a lot of good people at the club, and he has been at the club when Walter Smith was there, for instance, and I think he will carry himself and try to get that connection. The biggest thing is to get supporters on your side."
