Barry Ferguson has challenged Hamza Igamane to hit new heights as Rangers prepare for a make-or-break Europa League quarter-final second leg against Athletic Club tonight.
The 22-year-old was on target in Sunday’s 2-2 draw with Aberdeen in the Scottish Premiership, but despite his growing goal tally since arriving from FAR Rabat, Ferguson insists there’s still more to come from the “technically gifted” striker as the Ibrox side chase a place in the last four.
Igamane has scored 15 times in all competitions this season, yet Cyriel Dessers remains the man most often trusted to lead the line on European nights. The Nigerian forward has hit 23 goals so far in a standout campaign and could once again spearhead the attack in Bilbao.
Ferguson was asked whether Igamane’s Pittodrie display had given him a selection headache ahead of the second leg with the scoreline finely poised at 0-0 — but while the interim boss praised the young forward’s ability, he made clear his expectations remain high.
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“I’ve always got big decisions to make,” Ferguson said. “In terms of Hamza, he did well, but I think Hamza can do a lot more. I’m very demanding in that side of his game.
“There’s no doubt Hamza’s got so much quality — technically, he’s so gifted — but he needs to add other things to his game, and that’s something we’ve been working hard on.”
Despite the intrigue around who will lead the line, Ferguson confirmed his mind was already made up as Rangers look to finish the job and book a semi-final place.
“In terms of a team selection tomorrow, I already know my team, the players already know the team, and I’ve picked a team that’s hopefully going to go and progress into the semi-final,” he added.
