Barry Ferguson Backs John Souttar as Top Centre-Half
Barry Ferguson has thrown his weight behind John Souttar as the defender prepares to leave Rangers, insisting any club landing him is getting a “top centre-half”.
Souttar was told at the very start of pre-season that he was not part of Derek McInnes’ plans and should find a new club, despite having only recently agreed a one-year contract extension at Ibrox. Now, with Aris having reached an agreement to sign him, the Scotland international is expected to complete a move to Greece.
Ferguson baffled by Ibrox snub
The 29-year-old has been an influential figure for Rangers in recent seasons when fit, and Ferguson knows his qualities first-hand. The former midfielder worked closely with Souttar during his spell as interim manager and remains adamant the centre-back still has plenty to offer.
Speaking on the Go Radio Football Show on 10 September, Ferguson said:
“I worked very closely with John for three months, and I've got to be honest with you, he was outstanding for me. A real good professional. He was a really good leader in the dressing room.
“It was a surprise not being involved since the start of the season. Wherever he goes, they're getting a top centre-half in my opinion.”
Fitness issues have dogged Souttar’s time in Glasgow, but Ferguson clearly believes that, even with those concerns, he could still have contributed under McInnes – both on the pitch and as a strong voice in the dressing room.
Risky call from McInnes?
McInnes has been blunt about his stance, freezing Souttar out as he reshapes his squad. It’s a bold move at a time when Rangers’ season demands depth and experience.
Knocked out of Europe, the domestic front now carries huge weight for the Ibrox boss. Silverware is expected, not requested, and the first real chance comes in the Premier Sports Cup, with Celtic visiting Ibrox in a high-stakes quarter-final on 13 September.
That is exactly the sort of occasion where a seasoned defender like Souttar could have been invaluable. Instead, McInnes will go into the heart of the season relying on Emmanuel Fernandez, Olwethu Makhanya and Ben Godfrey as his central defensive options.
For a club aiming to compete seriously on all three domestic fronts, it is a lean group in a key area of the pitch. If injuries or suspensions bite, the decision to move on from a player Ferguson describes as “outstanding” may come back under the spotlight.
Aris, on the other hand, look set to pick up a defender with something to prove, a point to make, and a respected former Rangers captain backing his every step.
