Barry Ferguson is set to live the dream on Wednesday night when he takes charge of his beloved Rangers for the first time. The Ibrox Hall of Famer answered an SOS call from Patrick Stewart after Philippe Clement was handed his jotters following Saturday's dismal 2-0 defeat to St. Mirren. Ferguson, who hasn't managed since leaving Alloa in 2022, now has the task of steadying the ship for Rangers as they face Kilmarnock at Rugby Park.
Despite no longer competing for major trophies this season—they trail dominant Celtic by 16 points—the Light Blues aim to delay their rivals’ title celebrations. With Ferguson entering the dugout alongside backroom legends Neil McCann, Billy Dodds, and Allan McGregor, the Rangers squad seeks to regroup as they prepare for this challenging encounter away at Kilmarnock.
Kick-off is set for 8 PM GMT on Wednesday, February 26, 2025, at Rugby Park, and the match will be broadcast live on Sky Sports Football starting from 7:15 PM. For those without Sky Sports, options include subscription services such as NOW TV, where fans can secure either monthly or daily passes to catch the action.
Last season's meetings have showcased Kilmarnock as somewhat of a bogey team for Rangers, especially on their home turf. The last time the two teams clashed at Rugby Park, Marley Watkins secured victory for the Kilmarnock side with a late strike. Despite this, Rangers managed to claim revenge with a commanding 6-0 defeat of Kilmarnock earlier this season.
The match presents both teams with opportunities to bounce back following recent disappointing performances. Rangers had their nine-match unbeaten streak snapped by St. Mirren's victory, and Kilmarnock suffered their own setback with a 1-0 loss to Aberdeen. Now sitting mid-table, Kilmarnock will be eager to capitalize on their home advantage and build momentum.
On the injury front, Kilmarnock's Kyle Vassell and Stuart Findlay remain sidelined, presenting challenges for manager Derek McInnes as he prepares his squad. Conversely, Rangers will miss key players Connor Barron, Dujon Sterling, John Souttar, and Neraysho Kasanwirjo. Ferguson may look to make tactical adjustments, potentially bringing Nedim Bajrami and Tom Lawrence back to the starting eleven.
Referee Don Robertson will oversee the match, with assistance from Frank Connor and Ross Macleod, with VAR duties being handled by Steven McLean and assistant Alan Mulvanny. The stakes are high for both clubs, as fans anticipate whether Ferguson can ignite the Rangers performance just as McKinnes seeks continued improvement for Kilmarnock following their variable form.
Fans can follow the match live through multiple channels, with comprehensive coverage provided by dailyrecord.co.uk. During the match, there will be live commentary, team news updates, and post-match reactions, ensuring supporters remain engaged every step of the way.
After the match, don't miss out on highlights which will be available on BBC One Scotland via Sportscene at 10:40 PM, showcasing goals and key moments from this riveting Scottish Premiership clash.
This game marks the start of the new chapter for Rangers under Ferguson's interim leadership, and fans are hopeful for revitalized performances as the season enters its closing phases. Will Ferguson's coaching philosophy and the experienced team behind him bear fruit from the onset? Time will tell.