Future looks bleak for Ferguson

Rangers manager Paul Le Guen admits he may never play Barry Ferguson again for as long as he stays in charge at Ibrox.

The former Lyon boss confirmed that Gavin Rae will captain the team whenever he plays in future matches.

Ferguson was stripped of the captaincy and dropped for the 1-0 win at Motherwell and Le Guen concedes it "will be complicated" for the Scotland midfielder to play for the club again under his management.

Le Guen told Setanta Sports 1: "It remains to be seen. It depends on my own situation too - I am aware of that. But with me it will be complicated, because of what's happened."

Le Guen, under pressure already because of poor results, risked losing more popularity among Rangers supporters by leaving out the popular Ferguson.

Already frustrated to be 17 points behind Old Firm rivals Celtic in the Bank of Scotland Premier League, the thought of Ferguson leaving Ibrox has upset many fans, who may have been barely appeased by today's 1-0 win at Motherwell.

But Le Guen said: "I always think of the interests of the team and the interests of the squad and the fans must be aware of that. I understand their reaction but I always think of the interests of the squad and nobody is above those interests."

Le Guen shed more light on the rift between himself and Ferguson by saying: "You must be aware that when you feel adversity outside it's normal, but (when there is adversity) insides it's a problem ... and you have to decide."

Speaking on Setanta Sports 1, Le Guen sought support from the club's fanbase by saying: "They have to know that it is not a whim. I have tried my best since I arrived every day, but when I feel someone doesn't work like I want it influences my decision."

Le Guen confirmed: "When Gavin plays he will be the captain. He is my first captain."