(Credit: Imago)

Edward Bazeley

Mon 5 May 2025 14:14, UK

Barry Ferguson saw Rangers play out a 1-1 draw with Celtic in what will likely be his final Old Firm derby in charge.

The most memorable moment of Ferguson’s time in the Rangers dugout this term arrived on 16 March, when the Light Blues won 3-2 at Celtic Park.

But the 47-year-old was unable to replicate that trick on Sunday, with the Gers instead having to settle for a point at Ibrox.

Ferguson’s men will now look to get back to winning ways when they face Aberdeen on home soil on Sunday (11 May).

Old Firm lacks usual feisty edge

Over the years, the Old Firm derby has earned a deserved reputation as a feisty affair which often results in several bookings.

However, Sunday’s first booking did not arrive until the 88th minute, when Bailey Rice was shown a yellow card.

When that was pointed out to Ally McCoist on talkSPORT [05 May, 7.54am], the Gers great jokingly replied: “Yeah, I was embarrassed.”

Rangers must recruit well this summer

Rangers have endured a largely poor campaign, and last month’s Europa League quarter-final defeat to Athletic Bilbao ensured that Ferguson’s men will end the season with no silverware.

Prospective owners, 49ers Enterprises, have plenty of work to do once they acquire the Ibrox outfit, not least the decision of who to appoint as the Bears’ next permanent manager.

But while Rangers sit an embarrassing margin of 17 points behind Celtic in the Scottish Premiership, it is evident that the 49ers must oversee a successful summer transfer window.

Strong recruitment will be crucial for the Bears as they look to close the gap between themselves and their bitter rivals, and tough decisions will have to be made.

The Light Blues will have to decide on Jack Butland’s future after the former first-choice goalkeeper was dropped by Ferguson in favour of Liam Kelly.

The 49ers will also be occupied by Leeds United’s summer transfer window, after the Whites won the Championship title on Saturday.