Scott Arfield called out on BBC after what he said about Rangers star Jack Butland
Jack Butland made several stunning saves as Rangers picked up a huge win over Fenerbahce on Thursday, but he didn’t escape criticism.
The Gers left Istanbul with a 3-1 win in the first leg of the Europa League round of 16, after goals from Cyriel Dessers and Vaclav Cerny.
Alexander Dijku did manage to pull back a goal for the hosts but Barry Ferguson’s side held on to secure a brilliant victory.
However, Scott Arfield was far from impressed with the England star after the conceded goal.
Arfield slammed after what he said about Butland
Arfield believes Butland should have done better with the goal he did concede, despite having little time to react to a snapshot from Djiku over his head at the back post.
Speaking on BBC Sportsound (6 March, 18:47), host Kenny Macintyre repeated Arfield’s claims from earlier in the show, saying: “You thought, perhaps, Scott, that Jack Butland could have done a bit better.”
Steven Thompson couldn’t believe it, replying: “That’s harsh, Scotty.”
Butland needs to be on top form for Rangers
If the Gers are to progress to the quarter-finals in the return leg at Ibrox, they need Butland to be on top form as the Turkish giants push to get back into the tie.
The former Manchester United ace has been a rare positive in recent years, but has had an horrific season, with Philippe Clement being sacked last month.
| Stats | Butland v Fenerbahce |
| Saves | 6 |
| Goals prevented | 1.40 |
| High claims | 3 |
| Recoveries | 13 |
Ferguson’s spell in interim charge has not banished the troubles of the Belgian’s reign so far, but if the Govan outfit can reach the Europa League final, the atmosphere at Ibrox will improve drastically.
If they can somehow win the competition, it will increase his chances of being permanently appointed instead of the likes of Steven Gerrard and Derek McInnes at the end of the campaign.
Butland’s form will be vital to their chances, as the Light Blues’ record at home has been abysmal recently with three consecutive losses against Queen’s Park, St Mirren and Motherwell.
Tougher tests are on the horizon, but the keeper passed this one with flying colours, despite his performance for the goal bringing criticism from Arfield.