Rangers players must channel spirit of former midfielder Barry Ferguson against Celtic

Follow us on Google Discover

Barry Ferguson has ignited the passion in Rangers fans by remembering one of their greatest days against Celtic.

Former Rangers midfielder Barry Ferguson has taken a trip down memory lane, recalling one of his greatest moments against the club’s bitter rivals Celtic ahead of this weekend’s crucial Old Firm derby.

The 40-year-old is fondly remembered at Ibrox for a variety of reasons, having spent two stints there from 1994-2003 and 2005-2009. Ferguson always came across as someone who lived for the right to perform at the highest level, and as he stated in his column for Daily Record, his finest hour came in the 2002 Scottish Cup Final.

“It feels like being part of a world title fight, trading blows at the centre of a boxing ring, knowing any second now it might be lights out time – while hoping to land the knockout punch square on Celtic’s chin,” Ferguson told the Daily Record.

“When that ball hit the back of the net it felt like there were 50 million people inside that stadium never mind 50,000. That feeling will go with me to my grave.”

Ferguson was referring to his stunning free-kick against Celtic at Hampden, which ensured that his side drew level heading into the latter stages of the game. They went on to win the cup 3-2, and when you look ahead to this weekend’s clash, it is important for Rangers to remember these kinds of glory days.

The club has been through a lot over the last few years, and it is vital that they do not forget their identity or where they came from. These moments, involving iconic players like Ferguson, built the foundation of what we are seeing in the present day.

It could be easy for them to throw in the towel given that Celtic are six points clear with a game in hand, but we have seen in the past that anything can happen in this league. The club are starting to assemble a team that genuinely wants to play for the badge more than anything, which is a rarity in modern day football.

Their backs are against the wall, but they need to view Sunday’s game in the same manner as the one Ferguson is referring to – they have got nothing to lose, and both the team and fans may as well give it everything they have got.