Legendary midfielder Barry Ferguson has backed under-fire Rangers boss Philippe Clement despite merciless criticism coming his way after the 2-1 defeat from Aberdeen at Pittodrie.

His former teammate Kris Boyd has been at the forefront of the anger and went on an epic rant, calling for the manager to go live on Sky Sports after the game.

And while treble-winning captain Ferguson isn't happy with how things are panning out for the Belgian, he doesn't believe it's time for a sacking.

He told the Daily Record: "I know folk are calling for the manager’s head but I just don’t see that. The fact is that Philippe has signed a new contract at the start of the season and the club have just announced losses of £17m. I’m not sure they are in a position to pay off another manager, having gone through that costly process twice before with Gio van Bronckhorst and Michael Beale.

"So I think the board will stand by the Belgian coach. But where does that leave the club and the team? Well, the answer is clear, needing to win games and that is why beating Motherwell this Sunday in the Premier Sports Cup semi-final is an absolute necessity.

"It’s the very definition of a must-win game. If they don’t, well, what happens next will be uncomfortable for everyone concerned…"