Rangers: ‘Phenomenal’ Jack Butland just like Celtic striker Kyogo Furuhashi – Sky Sports pundit
Kenny Miller believes Jack Butland will have provided a similar impact that Kyogo Furuhashi has done at Celtic if Rangers can win a “Double or Treble” this season.
The former Stoke City shot-stopper has been instrumental for the Gers since signing on a free transfer from Manchester United last summer, keeping 17 clean sheets in the Scottish Premiership so far.
Having already lifted the League Cup earlier this season, beating Aberdeen 1-0 in the final, Philippe Clement’s side could still yet claim the league title and Scottish Cup.
Writing for the Sunday Mail on Sunday (24 March, page 58), the Sky Sports pundit said: “Jack Butland in goal has been nothing short of phenomenal. Butland’s been a sensational signing for the club.
“I genuinely believe that if Butland wins a Double or Treble at Rangers in his first year, he’ll have had a similar impact to Kyogo Furuhashi at rivals Celtic.
“Now I know Butland can’t score the goals Kyogo can. But I honestly feel his influence and presence since he arrived at Ibrox – as well as the saves he has made – puts him on a par with Kyogo two years ago.”
Jack Butland proves vital as Rangers challenge for Scottish Premiership title
Butland has been one of the most key additions to the Rangers squad, and possibly one of the only positive things Michael Beale did before his eventual sacking in October 2023.
The 31-year-old has gone from strength to strength under the guidance of Clement, with many fans and pundits tipping him to be awarded a spot in the most recent England squad, though that did not materialise.
Some will argue that performing well in the Scottish Premiership does not warrant an international call-up, but the ‘keeper has continued his form in Europe, helping the Gers to the Europa League round of 16 before narrowly losing out to Benfica.
Butland certainly has the potential to end the campaign with multiple pieces of silverware, and somewhat soften the blow of missing out on Europa League glory.
Pipping Old Firm rivals Celtic to the Scottish Premiership title would be a sweet result at Ibrox while lifting just their second league title in the last decade.
In other Rangers news, a player has admitted that Celtic made an effort to sign him after he left Ibrox.
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