Barry Ferguson’s Rallying Cry to Rangers Fans Ahead of Old Firm Derby Sparks Frenzy
As the anticipation builds for the latest chapter in one of football’s fiercest rivalries, Rangers interim manager Barry Ferguson has ignited a firestorm of excitement among the Ibrox faithful with a passionate message ahead of the Old Firm derby against Celtic. With the match set to take place at Ibrox, Ferguson’s words have sent fans into a frenzy, reigniting hopes of salvaging pride in a challenging season.
Ferguson, a Rangers legend and former captain, is no stranger to the intensity of the Old Firm clash. Having taken the reins as interim boss in February 2025 following Philippe Clement’s sacking, Ferguson has faced an uphill battle to steady a faltering Rangers side. With Celtic already crowned champions and Rangers enduring a trophyless campaign, the upcoming derby represents more than just bragging rights—it’s a chance to restore some dignity and send a message to their arch-rivals.
In a press conference covered by Rangers’ official channels, Ferguson delivered a stirring call to arms: “This is the Old Firm. It’s not just another game—it’s everything. I’m asking the fans to be our 12th man, to make Ibrox a fortress, and to show Celtic what Rangers are all about. We’re playing for pride, for the badge, and for every single one of you. Let’s make this one count.”
The message, laced with the grit and passion that defined Ferguson’s playing career, resonated deeply with supporters. Social media platforms, particularly X, erupted with reactions, as fans hailed their interim boss for embodying the club’s fighting spirit. Posts on X captured the mood, with one supporter writing, “Fergie gets it. This is OUR game. Ibrox is going to be bouncing!” Another added, “Barry’s got me ready to run through a brick wall for Rangers. Let’s do this!” The raw emotion in Ferguson’s words has clearly struck a chord, galvanizing a fanbase desperate for a spark.
Ferguson’s message comes at a critical juncture. Rangers’ 2024-25 season has been marred by inconsistency, with a 2-2 draw against St Mirren last weekend underscoring their struggles. The Light Blues squandered a lead twice in Paisley, prompting Ferguson to admit that “no one fears playing Rangers anymore” and to warn his squad that they are “playing for their futures.”
The team’s Europa League campaign also ended in disappointment, with a 2-0 defeat to Athletic Bilbao in the quarter-finals effectively ending their season. Despite notable highs, such as a stunning 3-1 victory over Jose Mourinho’s Fenerbahce and a derby win at Celtic Park earlier in his tenure, Ferguson’s side has struggled to find consistency.
With the Scottish Premiership title out of reach and Celtic celebrating a fourth consecutive crown, the Old Firm derby is Rangers’ last chance to make a statement. Ferguson, acutely aware of the stakes, has leaned into his deep connection with the club to rally both players and fans. His comments about the need for “pride” and making Ibrox a “fortress” have struck a nerve, especially given his storied history with Rangers, where he led the team to multiple trophies as captain.
The response from Rangers supporters has been nothing short of electric. On X, the hashtag #OldFirmDerby trended as fans shared Ferguson’s quotes and expressed their readiness to turn Ibrox into a cauldron of noise. One post read, “Fergie’s calling us to war. Ibrox is going to be unreal. Celtic won’t know what hit them.” Another fan declared, “This is why we love Barry. He’s one of us. Time to show Celtic who we are.”
Fan groups have also mobilized, with reports of planned tifos and displays to welcome the team. The Union Bears, a prominent Rangers supporters’ group, issued a statement urging fans to “bring the noise from the first whistle” and make the atmosphere “unbearable for Celtic.” The sense of unity and defiance is palpable, with Ferguson’s leadership credited for rekindling the passion that has been tested by a difficult season.
Ferguson’s message wasn’t just about firing up the fans—he also hinted at a no-nonsense approach on the pitch. With injuries plaguing the squad, including uncertainty over defender Robin Propper’s ankle issue, Ferguson emphasized the need for discipline and intensity. He referenced the team’s previous Old Firm successes this season, having beaten Celtic twice already, and urged his players to channel that same energy.
“I’ve told the boys, this is about showing who wants to be here next season,” Ferguson said. “Celtic might have the title, but we’ve got a chance to show we’re not done. I want every player to leave it all out there.” His blunt warning to the squad, coupled with his appeal to the fans, has created a narrative of defiance that has fans buzzing.
The Old Firm derby could also be a pivotal moment for Ferguson’s future. While he has publicly backed himself for the permanent managerial role, his tenure has been met with mixed reactions. Supporters admire his passion and connection to the club, but some question whether he has the tactical acumen to lead Rangers long-term, especially after slip-ups like the St Mirren draw and the Bilbao defeat.
A victory over Celtic could reignite the “Boss Barry” campaign, as one outlet put it, with fans and players like captain James Tavernier openly backing him. Tavernier recently said, “I’ve been really happy since Barry came in. He’s the right man for this club.” However, a loss could dampen enthusiasm and intensify calls for a more experienced manager to lead the impending squad rebuild under new ownership from the San Francisco 49ers.
