Barry Ferguson leaves Rangers after interim spell as Ibrox manager

Barry Ferguson has left his position as Rangers head coach after completing his short-term contract at Ibrox, with the club continuing their search for a new manager.

Former Rangers skipper Ferguson stepped into the role after the sacking of Philippe Clement in February, and was tasked with steadying the ship and guiding the team through until the end of the season.

In his 15 games in charge, he won six, drew five and lost four matches but enjoyed memorable moments including managing the team past Fenerbahce into the last eight of the Europa League, and overseeing an Old Firm derby win at Celtic Park.

With Rangers expected to be under new ownership next month when a takeover by US investors is completed, a new coaching team is to be appointed and a revamp of the squad to take place this summer. Ferguson and his assistants Neil McCann, Billy Dodds and Allan McGregor won’t be a part of that process, with the hierarchy deciding to go in a different direction for their rebuild.

A club statement read: “Everyone at Rangers Football Club would like to pass on their heartfelt thanks to Barry Ferguson and his staff, with yesterday’s game at Hibernian being their final match in charge.

“Club legend Ferguson answered the call in the club’s hour of need back in February and has overseen several memorable moments during his time in charge, not least progression to the quarter-finals of the UEFA Europa League and a terrific victory at Parkhead.

“A Hall of Fame member, Ferguson will now leave this role along with Neil McCann, Billy Dodds and Allan McGregor, with enormous gratitude and best wishes of everyone at Ibrox for their efforts in these last few months.”

Ferguson said he had “lived the dream” of managing the club he had served as player and captain, and would cherish the memories of his time in charge.

“I’ve already lived the dream as a player and as captain of Rangers, and to do so as head coach in these last three months has been an enormous honour for me,” he said.

“There have been some ups and downs, but I have loved this experience and given it my all throughout.

“I want to thank Neil, Billy and Allan, the three staff members who came in with me, and all the other staff who have supported me during my time in charge. Indeed from everyone at the training centre and at Ibrox, the backing I have received has been phenomenal.

“Above all, I want to thank our supporters. There is no doubt this has been a difficult season, but the backing the team and I have continued to receive in spite of that has been incredible.

“I have said, no matter how this period panned out, I would always remain a committed supporter of the club, and I look forward to remaining a Rangers ambassador.

“I wish whomever becomes the new manager, every success in the job.”

Rangers chief executive Patrick Stewart thanked Ferguson and said work was continuing to identify the manager the club hopes can restore the team’s fortunes.

“The club, and I am sure all our supporters, will be forever grateful to Barry for stepping up and taking on the role of head coach,” Stewart said.

“He and his staff have performed admirably amongst some trying circumstances and achieved some excellent results along the way.

“Barry, Neil, Billy and Allan all had distinguished playing careers with Rangers, and they have all enhanced their standing with the club for their work since February. The reception they received at Ibrox on Wednesday night was fully merited, and I know meant so much to Barry and his team.

“The search for our new head coach is progressing well, and we look forward to concluding our process in the coming period.”

Speaking after Rangers’ final game of the season, when the team drew 2-2 with Hibernian, Ferguson had made it clear he wanted to stay on but that the situation was out of his hands.

“I hope it’s not my last game but we’ll see over the next couple of days,” the 47-year-old said on Saturday.

“I know I can do the job if I get the right tools. We’ll see what happens in the coming days. Whatever happens, I’ll support whoever gets the job.”