Former Sunderland Midfielder Derek Ferguson Warns Cyriel Dessers About His Attitude After Confrontation with Fans
August 2024
Former Sunderland midfielder Derek Ferguson has issued a stern warning to Rangers forward Cyriel Dessers following an altercation with fans during the UEFA Champions League third-round qualifying tie against Dynamo Kyiv on Tuesday.
The incident occurred when the score was level, and Dessers, a Nigerian international, failed to control a crucial pass, leading to loud jeers from frustrated fans. Unhappy with the criticism, the 29-year-old angrily gestured at the crowd, urging them to support the team instead of criticizing. His reaction quickly became a hot topic in the Scottish media, especially after Rangers went on to lose the match, ending their hopes of participating in this season’s Champions League.
Speaking on the Open Goal Podcast via Rangers Review, Ferguson, who knows the pressures of playing for big clubs, advised Dessers to keep his emotions in check, emphasizing that fans will express their frustration when things aren’t going well on the pitch.
“I’ll tell you what, that’s when the fans kicked in,” Ferguson remarked. “That’s when the fans came in and gave them a wee bit back. By the way, just another wee thing. We praised him last week, but Dessers, be careful, mate.
“We get that you’re giving your all and are a bit jaded and all that, but when the fans are giving it to you, that’s part and parcel of being at Rangers, Celtic, Aberdeen, and Hearts. That’s part of the game.
“You’ve got to accept that. When he started giving it back, I was really surprised. I tell you, you’re in for a rough ride.”
Dessers, who joined Rangers from Cremonese, has had a challenging start at Ibrox, struggling with form and consistency in front of goal, which has led to some dissatisfaction among the fans. Despite these challenges, he has managed to score two goals in four appearances this season, providing some hope for a turnaround.
The forward will have the opportunity to regain the fans’ trust and add to his goal tally in the upcoming Scottish League Cup second-round match against St. Johnstone tomorrow. All eyes will be on him to see how he responds, both on and off the pitch, as Rangers look to bounce back from their European disappointment.
