Jack Butland sends two-word message after Rangers axe v Athletic Bilbao
Jack Butland has taken to social media with a new message after watching Rangers’ Europa League draw against Athletic Bilbao from the bench.
Rangers supporters destroyed Butland following yet another howler in the 2-0 defeat to Hibernian, allowing Dylan Levitt to open to the scoring from outside the box.
The 32-year-old has been a shell of his former self this season, leaving Barry Ferguson no other choice to drop him for Liam Kelly ahead of a crucial European clash at Ibrox on Thursday, 10 April.
While fans were shocked to see the manager finally make the cut-throat decision, it turned out to be crucial as Kelly’s penalty save kept the 10 men of Rangers to a goalless draw ahead of the second leg.
Jack Butland celebrates despite Rangers axe v Athletic Bilbao
Taking to Instagram stories (10 April), Butland shared an image of Kelly following his penalty save, with the caption: “Top drawer,” with three clapping emojis.
It was the goalkeeper’s first time being benched since the 1-0 win over Dundee in December, with Philippe Clement the one to make the decision over the Rangers goalkeeper on that occasion.
Robin Propper surely finished at Ibrox after Europa League shocker
Football Insider verdict
The Light Blues were handed a very early blow in the game, with Robin Propper being sent off for a last-ditch challenge on Inaki Williams after just 12 minutes, having originally been handed a yellow before a VAR review.
The Dutchman has caused nothing but uncertainty and panic in the centre of defence since his arrival from FC Twente last summer, with 36-year-old Leon Balogun often preferred at the back.
Ferguson, who could be made permanent Rangers manager in the summer, still pulled off an incredible result at Ibrox despite the early sending-off, and will have every belief of winning the second leg.
| Robin Propper v Athletic Bilbao | Stats, as per FotMob |
| Minutes played | 17 |
| Accurate passes | 87% |
| Accurate long balls | 0% |
| Ground duels won | 0% |
| Fouls committed | 1 |
John Souttar should also be available, having served his suspension, which will be a huge positive in defence, with Mohamed Diomande also returning, adding more attacking prowess to the team.
The Gers are on a truly incredible run in Europe, with the Scottish Premiership completely forgotten about, but Butland may have to continue watching from the bench after Kelly’s display.