Steven Naismith has detailed the Rangers leadership qualities that Barry Ferguson can lean on after being appointed Ibrox manager.
But the former Rangers striker has also been cautious about the midfielder’s approach during his Ibrox captaincy with the Gers dressing room very different from their playing days.
Steven Naismith played with Barry Ferguson during the interim Rangers manager’s time at Ibrox and the former Hearts boss has been reacting to the news on Sky Sports.
Steven Naismith on key Barry Ferguson ‘strength’
Steven Naismith has explained that Barry Ferguson’s natural drive to win will be his key ‘strength’ as he takes over as Rangers manager.
The former Ibrox midfielder won 15 trophies with the Gers and was one of the club’s most committed and iconic players of his generation.
”He was definitely a leader by the way he performed,” explained Naismith.
”His enthusiasm to win, whether that was in training, whether that was in matches, he would do whatever it took to win. That will be his strength.”
But Naismith has also acknowledged that whilst Ferguson’s no-nonsense approach worked during their playing days together, things might not be so easy this time around.
”That being said, when he was a player with that tough love, I found it good,” said Naismith. “It helped me. It spurned me on.
”We are in a different generation now from probably he played in when he was the club captain so I am sure him and the guys around about him coming in will need to be creative.
”Or probably get to understand the squad as quick as they can; who needs that arm around them, who needs that geeing up, who needs to be left alone.
”Playing at a club like Rangers that’s as important. You’re at Rangers because you’re a good quality player. It’s dealing with that mentality and that pressure of playing with the club.”
‘Barry Ferguson is best player Rangers have ever produced’
Steven Naismith has claimed that Barry Ferguson is the best player to have come through the Rangers Academy.
The former Hearts striker also believes that Ferguson is one of the most talented players to ever play at Ibrox.
With little to play for this season, Naismith reckons Ferguson’s mandate is about more than just guiding the club through to the end of the season.
It’s about restoring pride to Rangers and showing this young squad what life in Glasgow is all about.
”Barry Ferguson the best player that has come through Rangers’ academy,” said Naismith.
”He’s one of the best players to play for Rangers. So from that said of it, yes.
”He’s managed before but that’s been at a League One level. It’s in Scottish part time football. So it’s a massive change.
”I think the fans in general will be happy that there is going to be change.
”There’s not much else to be able to play for this season. The main goal is now going to be Europe but they’ve got a very tough task against Fenerbahce.
”It’s about restoring pride and having performances where teams are lucky to get a point.”
