In an all-time Rangers XI you wouldn’t fine many bluenoses who exclude Barry Ferguson from the heart of the Ibrox midfield.
One of the most talented players of his generation, not only was Barry Ferguson’s technical ability and range of passing a joy to behold at times at Ibrox.
But the former Scotland captain covered every blade of grass and is the physical embodiment of commitment to the Rangers cause.
Now, the former Rangers captain will get his chance to leave an impression on the confidence-sapped Ibrox squad and for one player in particular, it could help him go to the next level.
Barry Ferguson hails ‘immense’ Nicolas Raskin
If there is any player in the Rangers squad with similarities to Barry Ferguson, it’s Belgian midfielder Nicolas Raskin.
Raskin, 23, has been asked to take on more responsibility at Ibrox this season and has grown into his role as Rangers’ little general in the middle of the pitch.
In the Europa League campaign in particular, Raskin has scaled new heights with the ex-Standard star’s performances in the middle of the park a crucial part of the club’s progress.
Barry Ferguson branded Raskin’s performance in the Premier Sports Cup Final ‘immense’ suggesting that the midfielder gets ‘better and better’ with every game.
But it’s in Europe that the incoming Rangers manager’s highest praise has been reserved, with Ferguson waxing lyrical about Raskin’s performance in the 2-1 win over USG.
That’s even if Ferguson initially had his reservations.
“The little Belgian has had some difficult moments since moving to Glasgow and I admit I did struggle to see what all the hype was about following his move from Standard Liege,” Ferguson said.
”But I think we can now all see why Michael Beale was so keen to sign him a couple of years ago. He’s been terrific since returning to the team after a spell out injured.
“He was everywhere the other night, racing to cover gaps and nicking into tackles. And his header was inch perfect to give Rangers the lead.”
Rangers star must start taking notes
As Barry Ferguson starts to take Rangers training, Nicolas Raskin should start taking notes.
There is no better midfielder to learn from in a Rangers context and Barry Ferguson knows all about the aggression, responsibility and impact that is required if you’re going to be the heartbeat of an Ibrox side.
Nicolas Raskin clearly has something and whilst the Rangers midfielder has waned in recent weeks, this could be a shot in the young Belgian’s arm.
There are still elements of Nico’s game he has to improve, from his composure on the ball to adding more numbers in the final third, and there’s no-one better than Barry to help him.
