Barry Ferguson stunned by Rangers transfer for Dujon Sterling amid new tactical shift
Barry Ferguson says he is buzzing at how Michael Beale’s new Rangers side is going to shape up next season after the signing of “powerful” Dujon Sterling.
The 23-year-old has signed for the Scottish side on a four-year deal [BBC Sport, 30 May] from English Premier League outfit Chelsea after spending a successful 2022/23 campaign on loan at Stoke featuring in 26 Championship games.
The full-back, who can also play further forward, will officially join the Glasgow club on 1 July, subject to international clearance and Ferguson speaking in his Daily Record column [2 June] says he likes what he’s seen from Sterling and suggested a new tactical shift at Ibrox.
He said: “The Rangers boss is getting on with his own business with Sterling the latest new arrival from Chelsea. Having done a bit of research on the lad, I like what I see.
“He’s strong, powerful and can play in a number of positions which makes me wonder if Beale might be toying with the idea of going with a back three next season, with Sterling and John Souttar on either side of Connor Goldson.
“I’m excited at the thought of it, especially with the way Souttar is looking now that the big man is back to full fitness. But, most of all, I’m buzzing at the thought of what this team is going to look like when Beale’s summer shopping spree is over.”
Astute business
Sterling has certainly been given a warm welcome at Ibrox, where he joins from Chelsea having spent last season on loan at Stoke City.
The experience in the English Championship – such a rigorous and challenging division – will definitely help him when it comes to the physicality of Scottish football, with Rangers in desperate need of such aggressive and tough characteristics if they are to topple fierce rivals Celtic next season.
And the 23-year-old certainly seems a decent option for Ranger to think long-term about replacement Tavernier eventually, as his marauding presence, speed, athleticism and potential could certainly endear him to the Ibrox faithful before long.
The young defender impressed on his loan spell in the Championship with Stoke this season, showing superb versatility playing in various positions in the defence and midfield – such versatility could well prove crucial for Beale next season.
Ferguson has certainly suggested a fresh new approach at Ibrox which Beale may likely consider due to his tactical flexibility. Sterling has all the makings and characteristics of top-level centre-back and should the Gers fail to sign any of their central defensive targets this summer, they already have a potential solution right under their nose.
In other Rangers news, official partner Heart & Hand Podcast has shared a two-word reaction to a brand new Ibrox signing.