Barry Ferguson acknowledges that when Rangers came calling, there was simply no way he could turn them down.
The former Ibrox midfielder, one of the club’s most decorated figures, is a true Rangers icon who lives and breathes the club.
Following Philippe Clement’s departure over the weekend, Ferguson has assembled a team of Rangers legends to inject fresh energy into Auchenhowie.
Now, speaking for the first time as Rangers’ interim manager, Ferguson has shared his reasons for stepping into the role.
Barry Ferguson Confident He’s ‘Ready’ for Rangers Job
“I had a quiet few years,” Ferguson admitted. “I was enjoying a different role at the club.
“I spent the past year and a half as a club ambassador, and I really enjoyed that.
“But when an opportunity like this comes along, there was no way I could refuse it. I’m just happy to have taken it on, and we’ll see how things unfold.
“But listen, I’m confident. I believe in myself, in my staff, and in the players.”
Ferguson’s journey back to Rangers has been anything but conventional. Since leaving as a player in 2009, he has taken on managerial roles in Scotland’s lower leagues before transitioning to punditry and an ambassadorial role at Rangers.
Some have questioned whether the 47-year-old has taken on more than he can handle, but Ferguson firmly disagrees.
“I wouldn’t be sitting here if I didn’t feel ready,” he stated. “Three years ago, I went in a different direction, to be honest.
“As I said, I returned to the club in a different capacity. Was I thinking about returning to coaching and management? If I’m being totally honest, no.
“But when that call came, there was no way I could say no.
“Now that I’m back, I feel excited. I can’t wait to get started.
“I loved being out on the pitch with the players today, and I’m looking forward to standing on the touchline tomorrow night.”
Barry Ferguson on His Future as Rangers Manager
Rangers are going through a turbulent period and likely would have preferred to avoid parting ways with Philippe Clement.
However, consecutive home defeats to Queen’s Park and St Mirren made the Belgian’s position untenable.
Ferguson will oversee the team on an interim basis for the next 11 weeks while the club prepares to appoint a new sporting director and finalize a potential US takeover.
As for his own long-term ambitions, Ferguson refused to be drawn into speculation about becoming Rangers’ permanent manager.
Summing up his current mindset in just 11 words, he made his stance clear:
“I’m not even thinking that far ahead,” Ferguson said. “My only focus is on Wednesday night’s match against Kilmarnock.
“I’m here until the end of the season, but my main priority is to start winning consistently.
“So, for now, it’s one game at a time—and that’s Kilmarnock tomorrow.”
