Callum O'Connell

Mon 16 October 2023 8:40, UK

Keith Jackson has claimed former Rangers midfielder Barry Ferguson should be taken on as one of the coaches under Philippe Clement alongside new assistant Stephan van der Heyden.

The Daily Record journalist suggested Ferguson and Kevin Thomson as two names who the new boss could bring in as they know the club, know the league and have winning experience at Ibrox.

He also claimed it would be a surprise if Steven Davis, whose short spell as interim boss has now come to an end, wasn’t also a part of the new backroom staff.

Writing in his column for the Daily Record’s Monday Jury [print edition, 16 October, pg 37], Jackon was asked if he should look for someone who knows the club to join him.

The journalist responded in his column with: “Absolutely. It would be a surprise if Steven Davis isn’t part of the set-up and Clement should be talking to other former winners such as Barry Ferguson and Kevin Thomson.”

Understanding the culture and the club

The first thing any new manager arriving at Ibrox needs to realise is: this club is unique.

There is a particular culture, a demand and an expectancy among fans that the new boss buys into the club and what it’s about, and bringing in former players could be the first step towards that.

Bringing in Ferguson, who won five Scottish Premiership titles, five Scottish Cups, five Scottish League Cups and finished runner-up in the UEFA Cup with the club would provide him with plenty of experience of what it means to represent Rangers.

It would be the first step towards creating a bond between the fans and the manager which became lacking towards the end of Michael Beale’s tenure, with fans growing tired of the lack of honesty and accountability.

If Clement is to bring in some experienced heads to play a role among his backroom and coaching staff, it may prove a smart decision from all sides and help to build a connection with the club.

In other Rangers news, a BBC pundit is already talking about sacking the new boss.