Derek Ferguson claims there are still question marks over Rangers as he singles out Ibrox captain James Tavernier for praise.
The former Rangers midfielder was reacting to the Ibrox side’s 1-0 victory over St Johnstone as Philippe Clement got back to winning ways in the Scottish Premiership.
But Ferguson reckons Rangers would’ve been punished against stronger opposition after once again failing to properly turn up in the first half of the match.
As a result, Derek Ferguson has warned Rangers that the club might not be so lucky against the top teams after only just eking out the victory at McDiarmid Park.
Derek Ferguson’s Rangers warning
“It will still be pointed out that Rangers only performed for 45 minutes, in the second half,” Ferguson told BBC Sport’s live coverage of the game (13:54).
“They’ve been so much better without the ball, in how they’re pressing St Johnstone, and they’ve not allowed St Johnstone to get into any patterns of play.
“Where was that in the first 45 minutes? It wasn’t there. If you play like that against better opposition, they’ll hurt you.”
Rangers captain had ‘excellent game’
Derek Ferguson has also been hailing the return of Rangers captain James Tavernier, who was crucial to the victory over St Johnstone.
Not only was Tav on hand to force Jason Holt’s into the decisive own goal which won the game, but the Rangers skipper was a tireless and creative presence throughout.
Ferguson had plenty of plaudits for Tavernier come the final whistle, claiming the ‘much-criticised’ right-back had an ‘excellent game’.
Derek Ferguson also praised Philippe Clement’s half-time substitutions, with the struggling Robin Propper replaced by Leon Balogun.
“Rangers deserved the points, but was it the complete performance that the fans were looking for? No,” Ferguson told BBC Sport’s live coverage (14:04).
“St Johnstone started very well, controlled it at times. Rangers gradually got a foothold.
“It was clear to see Propper was struggling, so Balogun came on and that gave Rangers a confidence throughout the side.
“Someone who’s been much criticised this season had an excellent game – James Tavernier.”
