‘Truly fantastic’ Rangers sign hailed by pundit as potentially ‘better’ than £30 million star

Former Rangers captain Barry Ferguson acknowledges that he was initially worried about Jack Butland’s arrival, but the goalkeeper’s outstanding performances in the Scottish Premiership have won over an Ibrox icon, and he now ranks among the team’s finest glovemen.

This, more than any other time, perfectly captured the impact that Jack Butland has had north of the border.

Midway through the week, Kilmarnock led 1-0 against Philippe Clement’s team and looked to be up 2-0; only a long, clear-cut save from the England international kept the hosts from increasing their advantage. James Tavernier and Tom Lawrence’s goals within four minutes of the half’s end had turned a deficit into three points that could prove to be crucial in the title fight.

A comeback that was made possible by Butland’s valiant actions on the other end.

Jack Butland inspiring Rangers’ Premiership title charge

“You can rely on exceptionally skilled goalkeepers to make 99 percent of the saves that are required of them. However, the truly exceptional keepers make the unexpected ones. And it’s not often that you find men like that,” Ferguson tells the Daily Record.

Rangers would have needed to score twice in order to leave Rugby Park with a point if Butland hadn’t made that save.

“And to be honest, I had my doubts when the Rangers signed him in the summer.”

You can see why Ferguson might be worried. After all, Butland had hardly booted a ball in anger in the preceding few seasons and had not played a single game when on loan at Manchester United.

But Ferguson is happy to report that his worries have been allayed, seven months after one of the most inspirational free agents in Rangers’ recent history.

Just as proficient as Jordan Pickford

Ferguson continues, “There is very little separating Butland from the thirty million-pound number one for the Three Lions. I’m not afraid to say Butland is right up there with (Andy) Goram, (Stefan) Klos, and (Allan) McGregor as one of the best Rangers keepers I’ve seen in my lifetime.” Ferguson is certain that Butland will be included in Gareth Southgate’s England squad for Euro 2024.

“Nobody is going to tell me that he’s not on par with or superior to players like Nick Pope, Dean Henderson, Sam Johnstone, or Jordan Pickford.”

Butland has easily the most clean sheets in the Premiership with 17. He is also a big reason why Rangers have a Europa League match against Benfica to look forward to.

When Rangers, who are now two points ahead of Old Firm rivals Celtic, play Motherwell on Saturday, he will look to make it eighteen.

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