Honest Barry Ferguson admits he didn’t expect the call to become Rangers boss to EVER come after a whirlwind 24 hours saw him land in the hot seat.
The club legend has been handed the top job at Ibrox on an interim basis after a dismal campaign under Philippe Clement – with defeat to St Mirren on home turf proving to be the final straw for CEO Patrick Stewart and the board. Ferguson steps into the hot seat with Rangers legends Neil McCann, Allan McGregor and Billy Dodds by his side as he looks to steady the ship – but with little to play for in terms of silverware.
With Celtic leading the the Scottish Premiership by 13 points and a tough Europa League clash with Fenerbahce ahead Ferguson is facing a tough task. But he told Rangers TV that he jumped at the chance to step into the hot seat.
Asked how the last day had been, he said: “A severe lack of sleep – I have had two or three hours because I have got to get a backroom staff together and I have got to be respectful that they are in jobs elsewhere. They guys worked hard at that and so did the chief exec and that allows us to get started quicker than I thought.”
Pressed on if the opportunity was too good to turn down, he confessed: “If I’m honest, I didn’t think it would ever come. I have been happy with what I have doing the past two or three years since I came out of managing, and I have been backing the club as an ambassador.
“So, when I got asked it was a job I couldn’t turn down. Albeit, it’s only for three months but it’s my job to get a kick out of these players. When I watch them, there are really good players there. It’s our job as staff and my job as manager to get the best out of them.”
Ferguson was then asked for his message to the struggling stars at the club – with a brutal reality check issued. He first remained upbeat stating: “Enjoy it. You are playing for Glasgow Rangers. It’s a privilege. Walking into this training centre, enjoy yourself. Training will be tough, but it will be enjoyable as well.”
He would then send a pointed message to the squad: “There is a certain standard I would expect, but it will be enjoyable. When it comes to 90 minutes it will be serious, it’s all about winning.
“That is how I was brought up and that is the way I want my players to be. Win every game, that is the demands that is put on you here; when people come to watch you – and I don’t think we have won enough this year.”