Ally McCoist reacts to James Tavernier’s Rangers message after ‘scandalous’ claim
James Tavernier sent a new social media message as Rangers’ Europa League draw against Athletic Bilbao was shrouded by major controversy.
Barry Ferguson has experienced a rollercoaster period as Rangers‘ interim manager, now fighting for a spot in a European semi-final but still losing to the likes of Motherwell and Hibernian domestically.
The former Gers midfielder has spoken openly about his team’s inability to get up for Scottish Premiership games, but that was not a problem at Ibrox against the La Liga giants on Thursday, 10 April.
Despite the early blow of Robin Propper’s red card, a decision which Ally McCoist labelled “scandalous” live on TNT Sports (10 April), the Light Blues continued to shut their opponents out at Ibrox.
Liam Kelly became the hero after Jack Butland was dropped from the Rangers lineup, denying Alex Berenguer from the penalty spot in the final few minutes of the clash.
With Ferguson’s team now heading to Spain for the second leg on a level score, it is all to play for, and Tavernier is looking forward to the away tie at the San Mames Barria Stadium.
James Tavernier pushing Rangers forward after Ibrox shutout
Taking to Instagram (10 April), Tavernier wrote: “Half time and plenty to play for. We’ll give it our all,” with a fist and United Jack emojis, gaining plenty of attention from teammates and rivals.
McCoist was one of many to like the post, joined by Jack Butland, Ianis Hagi, John Souttar and Mohamed Diomande, as well as Tottenham star Dominic Solanke and Leeds United legend Stuart Dallas.
Barry Ferguson wants Europa League title back in Scotland
Football Insider verdict
Bringing the Europa League title back to Ibrox would be quite the message to send to their Old Firm rivals ahead of the 2025/26 campaign, especially considering how far Celtic are ahead in the league.
There are some concerns over the 49ers Enterprises’ takeover at Rangers, with Leeds United possibly not securing promotion out of the Championship, which would throw a spanner in the works ahead of the summer.
| Rangers | Athletic Bilbao |
| 29% possession | 71% possession |
| 4 shots | 19 shots |
| 0 shots on target | 3 shots on target |
| 1 big chance missed | 2 big chances missed |
| 2 corners | 9 corners |
However, supporters have been reassured that there will be no collapse of the 49ers’ deal, with plenty of business expected to take place once the summer transfer window opens.
It could be quite the summer of change for the Light Blues, with Nico Raskin now being linked with a Rangers exit, and a number of other key players likely heading for the exit doors at the end of the season.
If Ferguson is to take over this summer, he will need complete backing from the hierarchy to rebuild the squad, but a lack of funds has often seen the team fall behind their biggest rivals on the pitch.