John Souttar on the Brink of Aris Move: Ferguson's Support

Barry Ferguson has thrown his weight behind John Souttar as the defender prepares to bring his Rangers chapter to a close.

The Scotland international was told at the start of pre-season that he was not part of Derek McInnes’ plans and should find a new club. Since then, he has trained in the shadows at Ibrox, a senior pro effectively frozen out just months after penning a one-year contract extension.

Now, a way out is finally on the table.

Souttar on brink of Aris move

Aris have struck an agreement to sign Souttar, with the centre-back expected to arrive in Greece shortly. For a player who has been an influential figure at Ibrox in recent seasons, it marks a sharp change of direction.

The 29-year-old has battled fitness problems during his time in Glasgow, but when available he has often been trusted in big moments. That is why his complete omission under McInnes has raised eyebrows, not least from a man who knows him well.

Ferguson: “He was outstanding for me”

Barry Ferguson worked closely with Souttar during his spell as interim manager and made no attempt to hide his admiration when speaking on the Go Radio Football Show on 10 September.

“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.”

For Ferguson, Souttar is more than cover. He sees a proper defender, a vocal presence, someone who sets standards in the dressing room. In his view, any side picking him up is getting value and character in one move.

Risky call from McInnes?

McInnes has made his stance clear. Souttar has not featured since the start of the campaign, even as Rangers reset their ambitions after a bruising European exit. With continental football off the table, the domestic stage becomes non-negotiable for the manager.

Silverware is the demand. The first real shot comes in the Premier Sports Cup, where Ibrox will host Celtic in a high-stakes quarter-final on 13 September.

That is the backdrop to McInnes’ decision to trim his centre-back options. Emmanuel Fernandez, Olwethu Makhanya and Ben Godfrey are the three defenders he has chosen to lean on. No Souttar. No experienced alternative if injuries or suspensions bite.

For a club intent on challenging across all three Scottish competitions, it is a bold gamble in a key area of the pitch. Souttar’s experience and leadership would not have harmed Rangers’ prospects. Instead, that know-how is heading for Greece.

If the season tightens and the fixtures pile up, McInnes’ call on John Souttar may be remembered as one of the defining selection decisions of his time at Ibrox.