Leon King ‘set for Rangers redemption’ after what Barry Ferguson did
Leon King has seen his prospects at Rangers dwindle in recent seasons, but Barry Ferguson may give him more opportunities after what has happened.
The 21-year-old has made his way through the youth ranks at the Gers but has been unable to cement himself as a regular in the senior squad.
King has made a handful of appearances at Ibrox over the last two seasons, making his exit a seemingly likely scenario in the coming months.
Ferguson has replaced Philippe Clement, though, and the Scottish centre-back may be given a chance to redeem himself after recent developments.
Rangers redemption on the cards for King after Clinton Nsiala change
Ferguson may hand King more opportunities until the end of the season, Stephen McGinn says.
The ex-St Mirren ace hinted at the 21-year-old having a short-term future at the Gers after Clinton Nsiala was hooked off after 30 minutes in the 4-2 win against Kilmarnock at Rugby Park on Wednesday (26 February).
| Competition (2024/25) | Appearances |
| Scottish Premiership | 2 |
| Europa League | 2 |
| Scottish Cup | 1 |
James Tavernier replaced the French youngster against Killie, but McGinnn is sure about the 33-year-old playing out of position.
Speaking on the Go Radio Football Show (27 February), the Scotsman said: “Is there a short-term future at least for King? Tavernier filled in at centre-half, but I’m not sure if that’s a long-term option for Rangers. Could there be redemption for King?”
Ferguson looks for defensive solutions at Ibrox
Robin Propper is another defender Ferguson could axe after what has turned out to be an underwhelming acquisition for the Gers.
The Dutch defender has struggled to settle in the Scottish Premiership and seems to have had a hard time with the style of football played in Scotland.
Nsiala has partnered the former Twente centre-back for several weeks after the Light Blues were hit by fitness issues in their backline.
The French youngster was impressive initially but has been caught out recently, leading to Clement’s sack after recent negative results.
John Souttar is sidelined at Ibrox after picking up another knock, and the 28-year-old’s consistent injuries are a cause for concern.
Dujon Sterling is another player Clement played at centre-back, but the Englishman has also been out of action for a while.
Ferguson has slim pickings in defence, which could potentially make him turn to King.
If the interim boss has indeed lost faith in Nsiala, it would make sense to start the Scottish youngster at centre-back against Motherwell in the league on Saturday (1 March) before facing Fenerbahce in the crunch Europa League tie at Ulker Stadium on 6 March.