Rangers goalkeeper Jack Butland expressed his pride after leading the team as captain in their 1-1 draw against Olympiacos in Greece. Despite the honor of wearing the armband, Butland was quick to reaffirm that James Tavernier remains the rightful captain.
Butland stepped in to lead the squad after long-time captain Tavernier was benched by manager Philippe Clement. Reflecting on the experience, Butland acknowledged the significance of the role but paid respect to his teammate. “It’s an honor to represent the club in Tav’s absence, but he’s the captain,” Butland said. “I was honored to lead the team out and proud of the performance.”
Rangers secured a crucial point thanks to Cyriel Dessers, who scored a late equalizer. Butland praised the forward’s efforts and highlighted the team’s resilience. “Cyriel Dessers scored a big goal for us, which he has done on many occasions. He works hard and doesn’t always get the credit he deserves,” Butland noted. “It was a team performance, and I was proud to lead the boys out. I think they earned their stripes.”
The goalkeeper commended the team’s display and urged them to maintain the same level of performance going forward. “There are games I will be busier in, but I am as proud of that performance as any,” he said. “It’s brilliant to see the boys play like that, and we know that’s what we’re capable of. We really need to replicate that more often because we know we can do it.”
Reflecting on the result, Butland emphasized the team’s resilience and the support from fans. “It’s a good result at a difficult place away from home. The boys were incredible, the fans were incredible, and we can take a lot of confidence from that,” he added. “We got punished for one moment, and we didn’t deserve to be behind. It was about keeping the boys’ heads up and the confidence high.”
He concluded by emphasizing the importance of unity and determination within the squad. “I just tried to reassure them, tell them to keep going and not to give up. We don’t do that, and we have shown it on many occasions,” Butland said.