Ferguson Urges Rangers to Show Discipline Against Tournament Favorites Bilbao

Barry Ferguson emphasizes the need for discipline as Rangers face Athletic Bilbao in a crucial Europa League quarter-final clash.

Interim head coach Barry Ferguson has called for a disciplined and workmanlike performance from Rangers as they prepare to face Athletic Bilbao in the Europa League quarter-final second leg. The tie is finely balanced at 0-0 following a gritty first leg in Glasgow, where Rangers played most of the match with 10 men after Robin Propper's early dismissal.

Ferguson, who captained Rangers to the UEFA Cup final in 2008, wants his current squad to draw inspiration from that historic run. "The game's wide open, these are the games you want to be involved in as a player and a manager," Ferguson said. "We're up against a very good team with a very good home record, but we've worked very hard this week."

Key Points:

  • Liam Kelly was the hero in the first leg, saving a late penalty from Alex Berenguer to keep Rangers' hopes alive.
  • Ferguson highlighted the importance of discipline, especially after Rangers had a player sent off in their last two matches.
  • John Souttar and Mohamed Diomande are back from suspension, with Ferguson particularly pleased to have Souttar available.

Ferguson acknowledged that Athletic Bilbao are the tournament favorites, but he remains confident in his team's ability to rise to the occasion. "We know their qualities and strengths," he said. "We also have to know their weaknesses. They're favorites for the competition, my opinion hasn't changed."

The Rangers boss also emphasized the need for a strong defensive setup and better ball possession. "We will need the same work ethic, that team I played in was very workmanlike. I want to see that," Ferguson added.

With the final set to be held in Bilbao, both teams will be desperate to secure their place in the last four. Ferguson is relishing the challenge and is fully focused on guiding his team to victory. "This would rank right up there. Six weeks ago I couldn't have imagined I'd be in this scenario, but it's not about me. It's about my group of players going to show their qualities at the highest level," he concluded.

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