Jack Butland told to learn from Joe Hart after what happened in Rangers loss v Celtic
Peter Grant has urged Jack Butland to learn from Joe Hart in bouncing back from adversity, following Rangers’ agonising Scottish Cup final defeat to Celtic.
Butland made a crucial error late on in the showdown at Hampden Park, parrying out Paulo Bernardo’s shot to allow Adam Idah a simple tap-in as Brendan Rodgers’ side secured the double.
The low moment compounds the news that Butland has been snubbed by Gareth Southgate for the 33-man provisional England squad for Euro 2024, at the end of what has been a remarkable individual season for the stopper.
Grant, speaking on BBC Sportscene [25 May, 38m 30s], said: “It’s brilliant to see Jack doing so well, and for me he should be in the England squad. There’s no doubt about it.
“But he’s been unbelievable for Rangers; a fantastic signing for them. I’m delighted as a Celtic supporter, but disappointed for him because he’s been outstanding.
“He should look at someone like Joe Hart, who’s been through the difficult times and bounced back. [Hart] has also been fantastic for Celtic.”
Butland and Rangers must bounce back
If this is a big summer for Butland, it’s an even bigger one for Rangers.
Whilst the goalkeeper didn’t earn a deserved spot among the four stoppers selected by Southgate last week, he’ll be considering his options as a superb individual campaign has attracted Premier League interest.
This has a domino effect on how crucial this off-season is for Philippe Clement and his side, as Rangers must look at all costs to keep hold of Butland alongside skipper James Tavernier, whilst also recruiting a multitude of players as the last chance saloon arrives to topple Celtic next term.
Victory at Hampden would have at least given Rangers a larger portion of the pie; a claim to at least a share of the bragging rights in Glasgow and two cups to show for a turbulent campaign.
As it turns out, Celtic have roared to a double and left Clement and his squad with a bitter taste, largely down to two individual Old Firm derbies decided by the decisive goal in Brendan Rodgers’ side’s favour.
Whether Butland rekindles the flame at Ibrox or elsewhere is frankly anyone’s guess at this stage.
In other Rangers news, the club are in for what would be a record sale for an Aberdeen star.
For more Rangers news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.