In what seems to be a summer of transformation for Rangers, club legend Barry Ferguson has shared his belief that there might be more unexpected player departures from Ibrox. As the Gers prepare for the upcoming season, manager Michael Beale has been actively revamping the squad, with several signings already secured during the transfer window.
The recent exit of Antonio Colak, who signed for Parma on 15 July, and the imminent departure of Scott Wright, who is set to move to Pendikspor, have been raising eyebrows among fans. Ferguson, speaking on Go Radio, acknowledged that these changes were part of the club’s efforts to balance the books after the influx of seven new players.
“They need to balance the books a wee bit, that is natural as they have brought in a number of players. Scott Wright we are waiting for that to be confirmed, I think Glen Kamara,” Ferguson stated. He then went on to suggest that another player could also be on the way out, adding, “Don’t be surprised if there’s another one that might raise a few eyebrows. Just somebody you might not expect as you have guys coming into the final year of their contracts, Borna Barisic, John Lundstram.”
Indeed, with the club making significant signings and some key players approaching the final year of their contracts, the situation demands careful consideration. Ferguson emphasized that the management would need to initiate discussions with the players to determine their commitment to the club and avoid contract run-downs.
“You can’t allow them to run down the contracts. If Rangers, Michael Beale doesn’t want them to be there, if they are not willing to commit, Rangers need to cash in,” Ferguson asserted. Evidently, the club aims to make financially sensible decisions while bolstering their squad for the new season.
Ferguson drew parallels to Antonio Colak’s departure, expressing that it was not entirely surprising, as the player did not fit into Michael Beale’s plans. “I said about Colak, I liked his attitude and he scored goals, but it was clear in my eyes he wasn’t Michael Beale’s type of player. It wasn’t a surprise to me,” he said. The club seems focused on bringing in players that align with the manager’s vision and style of play.
While the potential departures of players like Barisic and Lundstram may raise concern among supporters, Ferguson highlighted the need to balance the books once Beale secures additional signings. There are rumored arrivals on the horizon, including Feyenoord’s Danilo and Los Angeles FC’s Jose Cifuentes, which could potentially impact the existing first-team lineup.
“It would be a shame to see the likes of Barisic or Lundstram go, though, as they are two players that have featured heavily since arriving at Ibrox and have always given their all for the club,” Ferguson empathized with the fans. The departure of established players would undoubtedly be a bitter pill to swallow, but it may be a necessary step to ensure a sustainable and competitive squad.
As the season approaches, Beale and his team will have to make crucial decisions promptly, especially with players like Barisic and Lundstram approaching the final year of their contracts. To avoid losing them for free, the club will need to address their futures sooner rather than later.
In the ever-evolving world of football, surprises are bound to occur, and Ferguson’s insights hint at potential shake-ups at Rangers. With the ongoing transformation in the squad, fans will be eagerly awaiting further announcements from the club as they prepare for the new campaign.