Barry Ferguson reveals Rangers signing who is perfect for Russell Martin and Ibrox star
Rangers claimed their first win in 35 days after beating Hibernian 2-0 at Ibrox on Saturday.
Martin was under intense pressure before the match, with Rangers fans protesting outside Ibrox ahead of the Premier Sports Cup quarter-final.
Rangers are looking to win their 29th League Cup, and their quarter-final victory against Hibs has come at a crucial time for Martin.
Former interim manager Barry Ferguson highlighted one player who could change the Light Blues’ fortunes under Martin, as he continues to watch on closely.
Derek Cornelius is the perfect fit for Rangers
Cornelius joined Rangers on loan to help provide cover on the left side of the defence.
Speaking on The Go Radio Football Show, Barry Ferguson said: “One thing he brings to the team is balance.
“He’s got good experience, he’s been at a club like Marseille, where there is also a lot of pressure on you.
“He looked comfortable on the ball, and looked like he brought the best out of Souttar.”
Playing at Ibrox won’t faze Cornelius, as the 27-year-old defender has a breadth of experience playing across the world:
- Lubeck (Germany) – 2014 to 2016
- Javor (Serbia) – 2016 to 2019
- Vancouver Whitecaps (Canada) – 2019 to 2021
- Panetolikos (Greece) – 2021 to 2023
- Malmo (Sweden) – 2023 to 2024
- Marseille (France) – 2024/25
Being a natural left-footer, Cornelius’ inclusion in the team allows for John Souttar to move over to his preferred right-hand side.
This offers calmness when Rangers are trying to build up from the back, something they previously lacked.
- Read more: Youssef Chermiti shares what £42m star told him about Russell Martin before Rangers transfer
Nasser Djiga and Emmanuel Fernandez should not start big games for Rangers
A big reason why Rangers have been so poor this season is due to the imbalance in their defence.
When Nasser Djiga was in the team, Souttar was forced to play on the left, leaving Rangers vulnerable in possession of the ball.
Djiga was also criticised for several poor moments of defending against Club Brugge in the Champions League play-offs, whilst fellow new arrival Emmanuel Fernandez hasn’t fared much better.
Fernandez arrived for £3.5m from Peterborough, yet failed to even make the squad against Hearts.
Cornelius has now established himself as a starting centre-back for the Bears, and his experience could prove to be vital in the next few matches.
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