Jack Butland posts two-word message after being axed for Rangers v Athletic
Rangers’ Europa League hopes are still alive after a 0-0 draw with Athletic Bilbao at Ibrox on Thursday.
Barry Ferguson was bold in his team selection, notably dropping the out-of-form Jack Butland to bring in Liam Kelly for his first Europa League start.
The replacement goalkeeper was thrown in at the deep end having to face a penalty in the final moments of the game but Kelly saved it and kept his side level going into the second-leg.
Butland sends message after Ferguson decision
With Rangers’ recent form at Ibrox, there were no doubt plenty of nerves going into the biggest game of their season so far.
The interim boss chose to make some big changes despite calls for Butland to retain his position between the sticks due to his experience.
When Robin Propper received a red card in the opening 15 minutes, it put even more pressure on Kelly at the back and left worries over whether the right decision had been made.
Nevertheless, the 29-year-old stepped up when called upon and kept his side in the game with the opportunity to progress into the semi-finals.
| Kelly vs Athletic Bilbao | |
| Rating | 9.2 |
| Saves | 3 |
| Penalty Saves | 1 |
Although he would have been disappointed to drop out of the side, Butland did not shy away from heaping praise on his teammate after the game.
Posting about Kelly on his Instagram story, Butland said: “top drawer” accompanied by applauding emojis.
Kelly given opportunity for Rangers future
Since his arrival at Ibrox back in 2023 Butland has been secure in his position as number one, under a number of different managers.
However, recent form and mistakes that have led to opposition goals have been worrying and left the pressure on Ferguson to make a big call either way.
Kelly certainly did not let him down either with his strong display that saw him step up to the plate.
Scottish Premiership action is a moot point for the Light Blues now so it will be interesting to see who the boss turns to against Aberdeen on Sunday (13 April).
There is surely no decision to be made for the reverse fixture against Athletic Bilbao next week though with Kelly more than earning his place in the line-up.
It’s a big season ahead in Glasgow as the 49ers Enterprises look set to complete their takeover of the Bears.
Therefore, between now and the end of the season, there is no reason the new selection in the net cannot stake his claim to be the main man going forward.