Jack Butland branded ‘rubbish’ after raging at Rangers teammates for his own failings

Jack Butland branded ‘rubbish’ after raging at Rangers teammates for his own failings

Jack Butland came under scrutiny after appearing to blame his Rangers teammates for an error that was ultimately his own during the 1–0 victory over Motherwell at Ibrox.

Rangers were made to work hard for the three points on Saturday afternoon, with Thelo Aasgaard’s second-half strike proving decisive.

Following last week’s defeat to Hearts and Celtic’s dramatic win over Livingston, Philippe Clement’s side knew a win was essential — and they largely had Butland to thank for delivering it.

The goalkeeper produced three vital saves in the first half and denied Callum Hendry shortly before Aasgaard’s winner. However, he also endured an awkward moment that drew criticism.

Early in the second half, centre-back Emmanuel Fernandez played a simple pass back to Butland under no real pressure. The keeper hesitated, allowing an attacker to close him down, and was forced into a hurried clearance that flew into the stands.

Despite the mistake, Butland reacted angrily towards his defenders, gesturing in frustration.

Commentating on BBC Radio Scotland, Thomas Duncan said: “He’s sliced the clearance straight into the stands and he’s having a go at his team for not giving him an option.”

Former Rangers midfielder Ian McCall added: “I think he’s upset about the pass-back because it’s gone to his wrong side. He wanted it played the other way.”

While a clean sheet and three points against a team that started the day above Rangers in the table looks positive on paper, the overall performance raised concerns. Aside from Butland’s shot-stopping — reminiscent of the form that once linked him with a £20 million move — there was little to fully reassure supporters.

Youssef Chermiti, who is expected to depart, failed to make an impact despite a bright opening spell, while Jayden Meghoma was repeatedly exposed down the left flank.

Defensively, reinforcements appear necessary, but Rangers also struggled to capitalise on counter-attacking opportunities late on, failing to kill the game off.

With Andrew Cavenagh and representatives of the 49ers present at Ibrox, incoming boss Rohl will be hoping they saw first-hand just how much investment is required when the January transfer window opens.