Scott Arfield hits back at Jack Butland exit claims at Rangers
Jack Butland has been a regular in the Rangers squad for some time now but his recent form has caused worry at Ibrox.
Since making the move to Glasgow in 2023, Butland has been the preferred goalkeeping option under three different managers, and deservedly so.
However, of late, Butland has made some high-profile and, at times, costly errors which have led to questions over his position between the sticks at Rangers.
Butland future questioned at Rangers
Although he pulled off some recent heroics in the penalty shootout against Fenerbahce, Butland’s domestic form has not been up to the standards expected.
Another blunder against Dundee on Saturday (29 March) has left further questions surrounding the goalkeeping situation at Ibrox.
Thankfully for Butland, a 93rd-minute winner from Cyriel Dessers put the celebration at the forefront of the conversations rather than the areas in which it went wrong.
Nevertheless, with the summer transfer window approaching and the 49ers Enterprises looking to pull off a takeover at Ibrox, some supporters are starting to suggest a change could be needed.
However, writing in the Daily Record (3 April), Scott Arfield has defended Butland’s position as he said: “There have been more mistakes than you’d expect from the big fella, with Saturday’s spill at Dundee another he won’t want to see back again.
“From being described as unsellable by Philippe Clement, some fans are now questioning his place in the team and his future. While I understand why, I have to disagree as I still think he’s a major asset to the team and the club.”
Rangers set to have Butland decision in summer
When looking ahead to the summer transfer window and considering the reasons why the Gers have struggled this season, Butland’s name isn’t at the top of the list.
The 32-year-old has shown the ability to pick himself up and has continued to be vocal in the side despite facing tough circumstances at times this season.
| Appearances | Goals Conceded | Clean Sheets |
| 25 | 26 | 10 |
That being said, if the 49ers are serious about taking the Light Blues forward and have an increased budget on which to do so, it could well be time to refresh things at the back of the pitch.
With no clear indication of who will be sitting in the manager’s seat at the end of the season yet, it’s hard to know which way it will go, as it will depend on personal preference.
The goalkeeper seemingly has enough to keep going until the end of the season, but Liam Kelly should also be prepared to take any opportunity that comes his way should his rival make any more big blunders.