Rangers

Jamie Currie
Fan writer

Sunday was a welcome change from the new norm when it comes to Rangers playing at Ibrox.

It was seven home games without victory before Aberdeen pitched up at Ibrox and after an uneventful first half, and a few tweaks by the management team, Vaclav Cerny put us in front in the 4-0 win.

On Cerny, that was his 50th appearance for Rangers and he's contributed 18 goals and eight assists - that's 26 goal involvements.

I don't know if he would like to remain at Rangers when his loan from Wolfsburg expires, but he's one I'd certainly be looking to bring in permanently.

It was also nice to see Barry Ferguson win a match as manager at Ibrox. I wouldn't fancy his appointment long term - but for a guy who is one of us, you can't help be pleased for him.

There are two matches left, and hopefully we can grab two wins to head off into the summer and appoint a new manager and see how we go in the transfer market, and that's before you factor in the takeover.

It's been a slog of a season, but it's 180 minutes away from being fired straight into the bin.

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Real Madrid assistant Davide Ancelotti is tipped to sign a three-year deal to become Rangers head coach. (Record), external

Ancelotti will become Rangers' new head coach after helping father, Carlo, settle in as Brazil boss in June matches against Ecuador and Paraguay, with Francesco Mauri also moving from the Spanish club to Ibrox as his assistant, having had rival offers from clubs in several leagues, including Saudi Arabia. (AS), external

Rangers have made contact with Real assistant Ancelotti about their head coach vacancy, but talks with the 35-year-old Italian are still at an early stage, other names are also on their radar and there is no leading candidate or imminent appointment. (Record), external

Former Wolverhampton Wanderers manager Gary O'Neil, Russell Martin, recently with Southampton, Sheffield Wednesday's Danny Rohl and Rob Edwards, who recently exited Luton Town, are on Rangers' head coach shortlist, while a Steven Gerrard return remains a possibility despite the ex-Ibrox boss's push for a clean break. (TeamTalk), external

Marco Rose, most recently RB Leipzig head coach, is the clear frontrunner with the bookmakers ahead of fellow German Rohl, for the Rangers job. (Scotsman - subscription required), external

Amid links with Rangers, former Ibrox defender Martin has admitted he is ready to get back into management and that he has rejected other job offers since being sacked by Southampton. (National - subscription required), external

Rangers are interested in 22-year-old Estoril centre-back Kevin Boma, but the Togo international is valued at up to £6.8m and is also on the radar of Union Berlin and Basel. (TeamTalk), external

Meanwhile, Rangers have targeted Brazilian midfielder Metinho, who is currently on loan with Basel from Troyes, but could face competition from clubs in France and Germany for the 22-year-old, who could be available for less than £4m. (TeamTalk), external

Read Tuesday's Scottish gossip

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Veteran defender Leon Balogun insists he still has more to give as he hopes to extend his time at Rangers.

The 36-year-old, in his second spell at Ibrox, will come to the end of his current deal at the conclusion of this season.

And amid a potential takeover, several other out-of-contract players are also unsure of their future.

But Balogun, who will be 37 in June, believes he can contribute to a new era in Govan.

"Without trying to sound arrogant, age is nothing but a number," he said.

"I've looked after myself throughout my whole career pretty well, I'd like to think, which is the reason why I can still perform at this level.

"If I felt that I was starting to really struggle, I would admit it, but I absolutely do not feel that way."

Balogun senses an excitement around Ibrox with the promise of fresh investment to spark a new era.

"Yes, it's exciting. It's going to be challenging as well because we have a big badge to uphold," he added.

"I think in recent years we've probably done more to lower it a bit and we need to put it high again.

"It's not a light badge as we all know, but if I can be part of a group that polishes it again and lifts it up again, of course, [I'd love to] because I said it last year, this has become my club now."

If Balogun is to leave Govan at the end of the season, he will leave with his head held high and his heart full.

"I think I've won everything domestically, if I'm not mistaken, which I'm proud of," the former Brighton and Wigan centre-back said.

"I hope I'd be remembered as somebody who played his heart out all the time, because I think that's just how I'm built.

"Like I said, proud, but also humble, because I know there's been many players before me who have achieved a lot more - but definitely it's been the best time of my career."

Jonathan Sutherland
Sportscene presenter

Liam Kelly: Not a vintage weekend for keepers, but Kelly kept Aberdeen at bay - along with the help of his post - to earn a clean sheet and gets the nod.

Nicolas Raskin: Provided the assist for Vaclav Cerny to open the scoring in the 4-0 win and delivered an all-round impressive performance.

Vaclav Cerny: Has that extra bit of quality that adds shine to this Rangers side. Always the most likely to come up with that moment of inspiration when required.

We asked for your views on Rangers' 4-0 win over Aberdeen.

Here's what some of you said:

John: Connor Barron's best game in a Rangers jersey. Obviously been coached into looking to get forward rather than all the sideways/backwards passes he usually plays. Looked a real classy midfielder.

Ronnie: A game of two halves. First 45 we were pedestrian and created very few chances. Second half we clicked into overdrive and blew Aberdeen away. Great to see Barry Ferguson get his first win at Ibrox. Nicolas Raskin once again player of the match and Nedim Bajrami once again makes the case to get rid in the summer. Will Barry get the job? Time will tell.

Sandy: Too little, too late from this group of players. I was at a Rangers legends night recently and Ian Durrant made a great point saying Rangers should always play with two up front for games at Ibrox. I think the introduction of Hamza Igamane in the second half shows this is the way Rangers must approach all domestic home matches next season, go bring the fear factor back to Ibrox. Cyriel Dessers still needs to be moved on, he's not the answer for us I'm afraid.

Sally: Aberdeen were not at the races and the scoreline flattered Rangers. The Rangers midfield once again were excellent. Dessers complaints are warranted but he just keeps going - keep him. Barry has done a reasonable job but lacks the experience needed for this job.

Pete: The first half of the Aberdeen game was woeful, but Barry obviously had a word with the team as in the second half they played with a bit more passion and scored decent goals. But there are players such as Bajrami, Mohamed Diomande and Jefte that need to be moved on. Ferguson should be made manager and given money to build the team around Raskin, Barron, Liam Kelly and Bailey Rice.

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• Rangers have kept a clean sheet in 14 of their 36 games, only Celtic (21) have done this more often in the Premiership this season.

• Cyriel Dessers has scored 15 goals in the Premiership this season (one in this game), more than any other Rangers player.

• Dessers has also scored in each of his last three games in the Premiership (three goals), his longest scoring streak in the competition.

• Nicolas Raskin has assisted nine goals in the Premiership this season (two in this game), more than any other Rangers player.

• Rangers have scored in 31 of their 36 games, only Celtic (33) have scored goals in more matches in the Premiership this season.

Watch the best of Rangers' four-goal Scottish Premiership win over Aberdeen as interim boss Barry Ferguson secures his first Ibrox victory in charge.

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Vaclav Cerny has claimed "anything is possible" in terms of his future as speculation grows over where the winger, on loan at Rangers from Wolfsburg, will play next season. (The Herald)

Rangers boss Barry Ferguson says he has had some fallouts with Nico Raskin - because the Belgian's fiery temperament reminds him of himself. (The Scotsman)

The future of Nikola Katic, who was linked with a return to Rangers in January but instead joined Plymouth Argyle, is up in the air after the Pilgrims' relegation. (Scottish Sun)

Read the rest of Monday's gossip.

Rangers ended a seven-game winless streak at Ibrox, while denting Aberdeen's bid for third place in the Scottish Premiership with a dominant second-half display on Sunday.

Barry Ferguson ended his team's wait for a home win as Rangers put their guests to the sword with a swashbuckling four-goal blitz after the break.

Rangers fans, what did you make of your team's performance? With nothing tangible to play for at the end of a disappointing season, have any of the players convinced you they are worth persisting with?

And what about Ferguson? Would you like to see him given the chance to take on the job on a permanent basis?

Let us know your thoughts using this link.

Rangers interim manager Barry Ferguson tells BBC Scotland he is "relieved" after his side ended a seven-game winless run at home.

"There was a lot of pressure on us today and certainly in the second half we handled that," he said. "First half was a bit passive and pedestrian. Aberdeen never threatened us but I wanted and demanded more at half-time.

"We made a change and a tactical change and the boys were really convincing second half. The only disappointing thing was we never scored more goals.

"I wanted more runners from midfield to make Aberdeen think a wee bit. We were playing behind the ball too much.

"I've got two games and the substitutes have given me food for thought now. That's what I want.

"We are all frustrated at how this season has gone but we are thankful we got the win today."

Asked about whether he'd accept the job on a full-time basis, Ferguson tells us he's "always up for a challenge" but repeats his mantra since taking temporary charge: "I'm not thinking of that, I'm not looking past Wednesday's game. That's my next game and that's where I'll be putting my energy.

"There is uncertainty. There are players out of contract, loanees going back, guys going into their final year and guys who maybe want to leave. Decisions need to be made pretty soon but we will remain as professional as possible to make sure we finish the season strongly."

Kheredine Idessane
BBC Sport Scotland Senior Reporter

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Given Rangers came into this one on the back of an unprecedented seven-match winless streak at Ibrox, you would have thought they'd have been busting a gut to put that right.

It didn't look much like it for long periods of the first half. The apathy symbolised by the plethora of empty seats around Ibrox appeared to be mirrored in the attitude and energy of the home players.

That all changed in a much-improved performance after the break, helped a great deal by some terrible Aberdeen defending.

Ferguson wanted his men to show pride, and quality in the final third. He got both, eventually, and is entitled to enjoy his first home win as Rangers manager. Whether he's around to enjoy many more will soon be decided at boardroom level.

Rangers are lining up a £4m move for Troyes midfielder Metinho, with the 22-year-old, currently on loan at Basel, top of the list of targets for their incoming American owners. (Scottish Sun), external

Former Ibrox player and coach Jimmy Nicholl has urged Rangers to get a move on with appointing a new manager - or risk an unsettled start to next season. (Daily Record), external

Read the rest of Sunday's Scottish gossip.

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Bailey Rice is determined to cement his status as a Rangers first-team regular, regardless of who the manager will be next season.

The 18-year-old midfielder made his debut for the club away to Livingston in February 2023, but further progress has been gradual.

After featuring just twice as a late substitute in the 2023-24 campaign, he has made nine appearances this term, three of which have been starts.

Barry Ferguson take interim charge in February, but there is uncertainty over who will be Rangers boss next season amid an impending takeover of the club.

"You don't want to just be a squad player or a bench player," Rice said prior to Sunday's Scottish Premiership match against Aberdeen.

"You want to be playing for this club which I've supported for my whole life. It's a dream every time I play and hopefully I can take that into next season and see where it goes.

"People can say it's been slow, but at the end of the day this is Rangers. It's a lot harder and a lot more demanding than any other club. I've been happy with how it's been."

On his relationship with caretaker boss Ferguson, Rice added: "He's been brilliant, he's been brutally honest which I really like and he has been picking apart my game to see what I can do better and see what I'm doing well."

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Rangers midfielder Ianis Hagi will miss the last three games of the season with an injury picked up against Celtic last week but Robin Propper has returned to training.

Ridvan Yilmaz and Dujon Sterling (Achilles) are out for the season while Tom Lawrence has been absent recently.

Aberdeen defenders Alexander Jensen and Kristers Tobers are back in training. Ester Sokler (leg), Sivert Heltne Nilsen (eye) and Vicente Besuijen (knee) remain sidelined.

Rangers are considering re-hiring Steven Gerrard as manager, with Gary O'Neil, Rob Edwards and Russell Martin also on the Ibrox club's list of targets. (Telegraph - subscription required), external

Rangers are readying an offer for Estoril defender Kevin Boma, while there is also interest in the 22-year-old Frenchman from Union Berlin and FC Basel. (Foot Mercato - in French), external

Jose Cifuentes has hinted he wants to turn his loan move into a permanent one after Greek side Aris made an approach to Rangers to lower the £2.2m asking price for the Ecuador midfielder. (Daily Record), external

Rangers-linked winger Kwame Poku has "30 clubs" chasing him, according to Peterborough owner Darragh McAnthony. (Glasgow Times), external

Former Ibrox full-back Alan Hutton says Rangers need to bring in six or seven new players. (BoyleSports via Daily Record, external)

Read the rest of Saturday's Scottish gossip.

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Andy Campbell
BBC Sport Scotland

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Ianis Hagi could have played his final game for Rangers after interim head coach Barry Ferguson confirmed the Romania midfielder is out for the rest of the season.

Hagi, 26, went off during last week's 1-1 draw with Celtic, shortly after having come on as a substitute, with a knee injury appearing to curtail his involvement.

And with his contract running out this summer, Hagi may not feature again for the Ibrox side, who have three games remaining and host Aberdeen on Sunday.

Hagi arrived, initially on loan, in 2020 from Genk before formalising a move later that year. He helped Steven Gerrard's Rangers win the 2020-21 Scottish Premiership but a serious knee injury in January 2022 resulted in a year-long absence.

In December 2022, he agreed a new contract but joined Alaves on loan the following August.

He was initially left out of Philippe Clement's first-team plans at Rangers this season but eventually returned and has contributed four goals in 31 appearances this term.

"Ianis unfortunately is gong to miss the rest of the season," said Ferguson.

"I'm disappointed for him. I spoke to him a couple of times, he's hurting. He's a brilliant kid to work with. He's got a lot to offer. Gutted for him."

Jane Lewis
BBC Sport Scotland Senior Reporter

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Interim Rangers manager Barry Ferguson has been talking to the media before the game with Aberdeen this weekend.

Here are the key points:

• On Celtic goalkeeper keeper Viljami Sinisalo having objects thrown at him during last week's derby at Ibrox, Ferguson says: "You don't want to see things like that, and the club are obviously going to take action."

• He hopes it won't affect away supporters being back at Old Firm derbies: "It's been brilliant having my own fans at the games and getting behind the team. So the last thing we want to see is fans not being allowed in."

• No updates on Ferguson's future and he's had "no involvement of what he would do" as the club looks to next season. He's trying to stay professional, prepare the team as best he can, and "not sit in a corner and cry".

• Ferguson admits it's hard on him and the players not knowing where his future lies, but reiterates a decision must be made soon and that there's a lot of work to be done for next season.

• He believes it is possible to rebuild Rangers into a competitive force in one transfer window: "Celtic and other teams have done it. In an ideal world a manager wants time to change things."

• Seven games without a win at Ibrox is "far too long" and the players "understand what has to be done on Sunday" against Aberdeen. Trying to win is personal motivation for him and the players.

• Ianis Hagi is out for the rest of the season. Robin Propper has been training all week so might be in contention.

Rangers and Aberdeen meet at Ibrox this weekend, 34 years to the day since the teams went to head for the title.

The Dons required just a draw to win the league, but failed to convert early chances and were made to pay as Rangers triumphed 2-0 thanks to a Mark Hateley double.