I grinned as Manny Fernandez launched ball into Row Z but he's learning to slap himself on the dish – Barry Ferguson

Barry Ferguson praises Manny Fernandez's recent performances for Rangers, noting improvement in concentration and defensive discipline after criticism earlier in the season.

In his Record Sport column, legendary Rangers captain Barry Ferguson has backed centre-back Manny Fernandez following recent strong displays. Ferguson acknowledged that Fernandez has faced criticism this season for lapses in concentration, but highlighted his solid performances in Rangers' wins over St Mirren and Aberdeen as evidence of improvement.

Ferguson outlined Fernandez's considerable physical attributes—height, pace, power, and aerial ability—but stressed that maintaining focus throughout matches remains key to his development. He noted that Fernandez, who came to senior football relatively late at 25, is still learning the game and sometimes becomes complacent when his natural advantages over opponents are clear.

Comparing him to former Rangers defender Lorenzo Amoruso, Ferguson suggested that when Fernandez stays alert and concentrated, his defensive contributions are invaluable. With Rangers on a 12-game unbeaten run and a League Cup final against Hibernian to come, Ferguson emphasized the need for the team to maintain intensity through their remaining fixtures before the international break.