Jack Butland one to watch after Rangers exit developments
Russell Martin has been thrown in at the deep end at Rangers, with plenty of work to be done before the new season.
This summer doesn’t just represent the start of a new managerial tenure for Gers supporters, but also a new era off the pitch with Andrew Cavenagh and the 49ers Enterprises completing a takeover at Ibrox.
After another disappointing year in Glasgow, Martin has a squad overhaul on his hands this summer, despite pre-season soon being underway.
Jack Butland has also been labelled as one to watch at Ibrox now, too.
Butland’s Rangers future is uncertain
Since his arrival at Ibrox back in 2023, Butland has been a core part of the Rangers team and deemed as undroppable.
However, the 32-year-old’s standards seemingly dropped this season, and the goalkeeper was guilty of making some costly errors between the sticks.
As a result, Barry Ferguson made the call to drop Butland ahead of a big Europa League game, bringing Liam Kelly in to take his place.
Kelly impressed and stole the number one spot, up until the two final games of the season, when Butland was reinstated in the squad.
| Player | Appearances | Clean Sheets | Goals Conceded |
| Butland | 28 | 10 | 31 |
| Kelly | 10 | 4 | 10 |
With two years left on his contract at Ibrox, there are now questions being asked about what the future holds for the 32-years-old.
According to the Rangers Review (10 June), Butland’s future at Rangers is “one to watch.”
The report states that Martin is keen for a goalkeeper who is comfortable in possession, and it’s questionable whether the current goalkeeper can meet the demands required.
However, no exits are imminent, with the players returning to Auchenhowie for pre-season training in 13 days.
Butland could leave Rangers
There is no denying that Butland has been a star for Rangers, but last season’s form suggested he may be showing signs of being past his peak.
Martin has a very stubborn way of playing football and he needs a goalkeeper in place who he feels can confidently execute that for him.
A return to Auchenhowie for pre-season training soon will allow the new manager to properly weigh up his options.
However, it’s a big risk to keep Butland in place as first choice with the Gers looking to progress significantly.