Duncan Ferguson Defends Youssef Chermiti and Opens Up on His Own Ibrox Regret
Duncan Ferguson knows exactly what it feels like to carry the weight of expectation at Rangers — and to be labelled a flop far too soon. That’s why he’s urging patience with Youssef Chermiti, the 21-year-old striker who is still searching for form following his £8 million move from Everton.
Ferguson, who himself scored only two goals in 14 appearances for Rangers after joining from Dundee United in 1993, sees something of his younger self in the Portuguese forward.
“Playing for Rangers is a massive step up for anyone,” Ferguson said. “People have to remember Chermiti is still only 21 and needs time to adapt. Nothing can prepare you for the demands of being a Rangers player. I was the same age when I joined, and I was too young to make the most of it — that’s a big regret for me.”
Despite scoring just once so far for Rangers, Ferguson believes Chermiti can still silence his critics.
“He’s got everything needed to be a success — he just needs the magic ingredients every striker relies on: luck and confidence,” he continued. “He shouldn’t be worrying about the transfer fee. The club clearly see the potential in him, and with time, he can reach that level. But patience isn’t something you find much of at the Old Firm.”
Chermiti’s struggles were highlighted again during the Premier Sports Cup semi-final defeat to Celtic, where missed chances drew criticism from fans. With only five goals and three assists in 57 senior appearances, many supporters have questioned why Rangers made him the second-most expensive signing in club history.
Still, Ferguson is backing the youngster to turn things around under new manager Danny Rohl.
“If he can relax, get a run of games, and build confidence, he’ll change opinions,” he said. “Rohl’s already shown faith by starting him against Celtic and Roma — that trust says a lot. He’s just a kid in football terms, and now he needs to focus on doing his job.”
Away from the pitch, Ferguson remains passionate about his coaching ambitions, having worked under Carlo Ancelottiat Everton and taken charge as caretaker boss.
“I’ve learned from every experience, so there are no regrets,” he said. “I’ve had offers to return to management but I’ll take my time — I’ve learned not to rush. I still believe I’ll be a great manager one day, and hopefully, I’ll get the chance to lead Everton permanently in the future. You’ve got to aim high.”
And when it comes to Chermiti, Ferguson’s belief remains unshaken:
“Scoring goals changes everything for a striker,” he added. “He’s got the tools to make it at Rangers. I wouldn’t be writing him off — not yet.”
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