NafisaRangers goalkeeper Jack Butland had a straightforward message for a former colleague after his club issued an emotional farewell tribute.
Butland and Rangers are nearing the conclusion of a forgettable season at Ibrox, with the Premiership crown secured by Celtic weeks ago and the Light Blues heading for a second successive campaign without silverware in the last three years.
The ex-England international’s previously unchallenged role in goal at Rangers has been questioned this term, with Liam Kelly featuring 13 times amid spells of injury and dips in form for Butland.
Rangers are preparing for an overhaul this summer when 49ers Enterprises officially take the reins at Ibrox next month. Butland is among a number of players anticipated to face competition for their roles during a comprehensive squad refresh.
Crystal Palace tribute prompts Jack Butland reaction:
Rangers snapped up Butland on a free transfer in 2023 following three mostly inactive years with Crystal Palace, during which the 32-year-old spent the final half-season on loan at Manchester United.
During his stint at Selhurst Park, Butland made just 17 appearances across all competitions and only nine in the English top flight – a stark contrast to the 362 outings recorded over 13 years by Palace stalwart Joel Ward.
Palace announced on Instagram (13 May) that their skipper Ward would depart this summer at the age of 35, having joined from Portsmouth for just £400,000 back in 2012.
Butland reshared the club’s post via his own Instagram story and delivered a concise tribute to Ward in three words, stating: “What a man”.
Butland likely to be among few retained in Rangers revamp:
It remains to be seen where Ward will head after his Palace deal concludes, though a reunion with Butland at Ibrox seems improbable as Rangers’ incoming owners gear up for a substantial revamp of the squad.
Football Insider reported last month that 49ers Enterprises aim to construct a fresh Rangers side around emerging talents like Hamza Igamane and Nico Raskin, with experienced names such as Butland expected to face a challenge to hold onto their spots.
Some supporters believe Butland should be offloaded as part of the restructuring, and with Football Insider disclosing that Rangers’ next head coach will have £25million to invest this summer, strengthening the goalkeeping department isn’t off the table.
Nafisa
