49ers ‘duped into Barry Ferguson call’ as Rangers takeover edges close
Andrew Cavenagh and 49ers Enterprises may be in danger of making the wrong decision with Barry Ferguson as the Rangers takeover draws closer.
The former Scotland international was appointed interim manager until the end of the season after Philippe Clement’s consistent struggles.
Cavenagh and the 49ers have found a breakthrough in their aspirations to acquire 51 per cent shares at the Glaswegian outfit.
Ferguson will hope to retain his place at Ibrox once the US consortium arrives, but the Scotsman’s prospects may not look good.
Cavenagh and 49ers to make wrong managerial call at Rangers
Cavenagh and the 49ers could potentially be duped into appointing the wrong manager after completing their takeover, Keith Jackson says.
The Daily Record journalist believes the Americans may look for a new head coach, leading to Ferguson’s exit from the Gers in the coming months.
| Major shareholders | Percentage |
| New Oasis Asset Limited | 12.96 |
| Douglas Park | 11.54 |
| George Alexander Taylor | 10.22 |
| Stuart Gibson | 9.53 |
| John Bennett | 7.11 |
| Borita Investments Limited | 6.69 |
| Perron Investments LLC | 6 |
Jackson is worried that the US consortium could possibly rely on data-driven methods to choose the Light Blues’ next boss, which could turn out to be a massive error.
The journalist wrote in the Record (21 April): “But the chances are Cavenagh and his consortium will look elsewhere for a new manager, and there’s a danger that they too will be duped into picking the wrong man based on a data-driven algorithm or some form of artificial intelligence.”
Ferguson knows Ibrox exit on cards after takeover
While some would like to see Ferguson continue at Ibrox beyond the current campaign, it seems highly unlikely.
The former Scottish midfielder has shown his managerial nous by beating Jose Mourinho and Brendan Rodgers, but that may not be enough to keep him in the Glaswegian outfit’s dugout.
While the 47-year-old head coach has done an impressive job in the Europa League, the Gers’ league record under his leadership has been underwhelming.
It wouldn’t be surprising to see Ferguson receive offers away from Rangers at the end of the season if the prospective new owners decide to appoint a new manager.
The former Scotland international hasn’t had the best of careers as a head coach, having a less-than-encouraging record at Clyde FC, Kelty Hearts and Alloa Athletic.
If the prospective new owners do make a change in the Ibrox dugout, they’ll need to ensure the new boss has a quick start to life at the Bears.
Supporters may not be too patient with the next permanent manager and will want to see positive results immediately, as they hope to see Celtic knocked off their perch.