Jack Butland warned Rangers position under threat amid ‘surprising’ development
Jack Butland has been the go-to option between the sticks for three different Rangers managers, but his recent form has caused concern.
Butland joined Rangers from Manchester United in June 2023 and has been a near ever-present pretty much ever since under Michael Beale, Philippe Clement and now Barry Ferguson.
However, the Englishman has made some high-profile errors of late, including in Rangers’ dramatic 4-3 win over Dundee at the weekend.
Butland did make some key saves, although it is now eight goals conceded in his past three appearances between the sticks.
Butland guilty of recent howlers
Butland was the Rangers hero in the recent penalty shootout win over Fenerbahce with a couple of penalty saves, but he has not been at his usual high levels domestically.
Indeed, James McFadden shared his “worry” after the latest of Butland’s errors in the comeback win over Dundee.
And pundit Derek Ferguson, speaking exclusively to Ibrox News, reckons Butland will need to step up if he is to not lose his place in the side come next season.
“Every position will be looked at once the takeover goes through,” Ferguson said. “Jack will know more is needed. He knows he can’t play with his feet, so don’t try to be too clever and do things you can’t do.
“The goals he’s conceded of late, especially against Motherwell, has been surprising – it’s a real lack of concentration, and he has had a few howlers.
“You also have a good keeper in Liam Kelly. Jack needs to focus on what he’s good at, such as shot-stopping and not playing out from the back.
“But then you ask if there are better goalkeepers out there? Well if there are, and the money is there, then go out and get these guys.
“I just want the best for Rangers. Butland shouldn’t think he’s undroppable. If you make high-profile mistakes, then questions need to be asked of your place in the team.”
Scottish Premiership clean sheets 2024-25
Butland has kept 10 clean sheets in 25 Scottish Premiership matches this season, which is a rather underwhelming tally but can also be put down to the defence.
| Player | Clean sheets | Games played |
| Kasper Schmeichel | 19 | 30 |
| Jack Butland | 10 | 25 |
| Jack Walton | 10 | 31 |
By comparison, Kasper Schmeichel at Celtic has 19 clean sheets in 30 appearances this term, raking him top of the list.
Dundee United’s Jack Walton is joint-second with Butland on 10, albeit having played six more matches this season.
Butland is by no means the weakest link in this Rangers side – indeed, he is often the best player on the pitch – but he simply cannot allow regular mistakes to creep into his game as has happened of late.