The 30-year-old goalkeeper has been outstanding for the Rangers this season, both at home and in Europe, and many observers and supporters had him penciled in to play for the Three Lions in their next friendlies leading up to Euro 2024.
Ferguson was among those who were taken aback by the inclusion of Crystal Palace’s Sam Johnstone, Arsenal’s Aaron Ramsdale, and Jordan Pickford, the goalkeeper for Everton, on the list. He feels that Southgate has shown snobbery by ignoring the Premiership.
“I was watching the announcement and I couldn’t believe it – and I’m not just saying this because he’s the Rangers goalkeeper,” Ferguson told the newspaper. “To be honest, I have no idea what to say. Yes, the keepers who were chosen in front of him are excellent keepers. Are they superior to Jack Butland, though? Not in my opinion.
“I find it hilarious. It is an insult to Scottish football. Given that he is playing up here, why hasn’t he been included in that squad? Jack Butland might not need to make 10, 12, or 15 saves during a game, and definitely not when the Rangers are playing at Ibrox, as I frequently tell people.
But it indicates that he has extremely high levels of focus if he just needs to make one or two saves in a ninety-minute period. That indicates to me that the man is attentive and focused.
“Typical, I thought to myself when I saw the group. It merely demonstrates their disdain for our game. They are unaware of the pressure he plays under each and every game. You’re expected to win every game and perform well up here as a Rangers keeper. Compared to the other keepers in that team, he is under greater pressure.
Take a look at how he handled that and the saves he produced. Butland is superior to both of the keepers they selected and, in my opinion, superior to England’s starting goalkeeper right now. “What do I have to do here?” he must be asking himself.
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