Belgian Clement was sacked yesterday the day after a 2-0 home Premiership defeat by St Mirren left second-placed Rangers 13 points adrift of rivals Celtic in the standings.

The 47-year-old Ferguson, who had two spells with Rangers as a player and captained the side to a domestic treble in 2002–03, previously served as caretaker coach of Blackpool in 2014.

He has also managed Clyde, Kelty Hearts and Alloa Athletic.

“I want to wish Philippe every success in the future,” Rangers CEO Patrick Stewart said in a statement.

“He is a fine man whom I have enjoyed working with in my short time here so far.”

“I also want to welcome Barry back to the club. We appreciate him and his team stepping into the role at this difficult time.”

Clement has guided Rangers to the Europa League last 16, where they face Fenerbahce next month, but they were knocked out of the Scottish Cup by second-tier Queen’s Park this month and lost the League Cup final to Celtic on penalties in December.