Rangers axe Ferguson, McGregor

Barry Ferguson was Friday stripped of the Rangers’ captaincy, three days after being dropped by Scotland because of a late-night drinking spree with team-mate Allan McGregor.

Ferguson and goalkeeper McGregor were both sent home from training and dropped from Walter Smith’s squad for Sunday’s trip to Falkirk.

The club announced that it would be taking further disciplinary action against them both and making a statement after the two players had met with chief executive Martin Bain later in the day.

Defender David Weir has taken over the captaincy until the end of the season.

Although the drinking incident was dealt with by Scotland’s manager George Burley, Rangers officials were furious with Ferguson and McGregor for making two-fingered gestures to photographers as they sat on the bench during Scotland’s 2-1 World Cup qualifying win over Iceland on Wednesday.

“We were unhappy about that (drinking) situation but that was something for George to act on,” Smith said.

“The more disappointing aspect for us was the subsequent action on the bench on Wednesday night. From the club’s point of view, that was not a good image to project.”

The Ibrox boss admitted the club could have done without the current saga as they look to stay in touch with arch-rivals Celtic in the race for the title.

“It’s not something we would have wanted at this time, but the timing was not in our control,” he said. “We just have to react to the circumstances and, regrettably, it has happened at this time.”

Weir admitted the loss of Ferguson and McGregor this weekend would be a blow.

“Obviously, I’m pleased to be captain. I’ve stepped in in the past when Barry hasn’t been available but, obviously, I would rather Barry was the captain.

“Barry and Allan missing the game is a big loss for us; they are two big players and everyone in the dressing room is disappointed.

“They are two friends as well – that’s the most disappointing thing. They are lads that we work with every day, we like them, and it’s not great to hear this.”