Rangers take on St Mirren in the Scottish Premiership this Saturday, with Cyriel Dessers’ future at Ibrox becoming a topic of discussion on BBC Sportsound.
Barry Ferguson’s side travelled to Paisley on 26 April, as the interim manager aims to complete his short stint with a perfect record.
Nigerian forward Dessers had an early opportunity to put the Gers ahead after a superb lofted pass from Mohamed Diomande split the St Mirren defence, but the striker couldn’t capitalize.
This missed chance reignited debates about Dessers’ long-term future with Rangers, especially with speculation about a potential winter exit still fresh.
Dessers exit talk branded “mad” as striker backed to stay
BBC journalist Tom English dismissed the rumours surrounding Dessers’ departure, particularly after the striker found the net just before halftime to give Rangers the lead — though St Mirren later equalized.
English expressed confusion over calls to sell the Nigerian centre-forward, describing such suggestions as “mad.”
Competition (2024/25)
Appearances: 31
Goals: 13
Assists: 2
Dessers’ Scottish Premiership stats this season.
English noted his skepticism regarding Danilo’s impact and, while acknowledging Hamza Igamane’s potential, suggested that Dessers could still offer something to Rangers next season.
Speaking on BBC Sportsound (26 April), English said:
“You look at Danilo — nothing. Igamane — young, give him a pass; he looks a good player. But this clamour to get Dessers out of the club, I think it’s mad. He’s not an A-lister — they need better — but still.”
Kevin Thelwell set to decide Ferguson’s future
Rangers’ director of football, Kevin Thelwell, will soon meet with Ferguson to discuss his future as the club seeks a permanent manager.
Ferguson’s prospects of remaining in charge diminished following Rangers’ Europa League defeat to Athletic Bilbao. However, with the imminent arrival of Andrew Cavenagh and 49ers Enterprises, optimism is growing among the Ibrox support.
For now, Ferguson’s focus will be on finishing the season strongly. Although Celtic have already secured the Premiership title after beating Dundee United, Rangers will be keen to build momentum ahead of the crucial Old Firm clash on 4 May.
Despite doubts over his suitability for the long-term role, Ferguson’s interim appointment has helped lift the mood at Ibrox. A victory over St Mirren would further boost confidence heading into the final stages of the campaign.
Thelwell faces a key decision in appointing the next manager to lead Rangers into the 2024/25 season.
‘Mad’ – Tom English reacts to Rangers player exit claim live on BBC Sportsound v St Mirren
