A Remarkable Comeback
Jack Butland, the 29-year-old goalkeeper who joined Rangers on a season-long loan from Crystal Palace in January, has been one of the standout performers for the Scottish champions this season. He has kept 12 clean sheets in 16 appearances, conceding only seven goals and saving two penalties. He has also played a key role in Rangers’ historic unbeaten run in the Scottish Premiership, which saw them clinch their 55th title with six games to spare.
Butland’s impressive form has silenced his critics, who questioned his move to Rangers and doubted his ability to recover from a series of injuries and setbacks that plagued his career in England. He was once regarded as one of the most promising young goalkeepers in the country, earning nine caps for the national team and attracting interest from top clubs like Liverpool and Chelsea. However, a fractured ankle in a friendly match against Germany in 2016 sidelined him for more than a year, and he never regained his confidence or form at Stoke City, who were relegated from the Premier League in 2018.
He joined Crystal Palace in 2020, hoping to revive his career, but he found himself behind Vicente Guaita in the pecking order and made only one appearance for the Eagles. He decided to seek a new challenge and agreed to join Rangers on loan, despite having offers from other clubs in England and abroad. He said he was attracted by the opportunity to work with Steven Gerrard, the Rangers manager and former England captain, who he described as “a legend and a leader”.
A Perfect Fit for Rangers
Butland has quickly adapted to life in Glasgow and has become a fan favourite at Ibrox. He has shown his quality and consistency in both domestic and European competitions, helping Rangers reach the last 16 of the Europa League, where they will face Slavia Prague. He has also formed a strong partnership with the Rangers defence, which has been the best in the league, conceding only nine goals in 32 games.
Butland has praised the Rangers squad for their professionalism and camaraderie, and has credited Gerrard for his guidance and support. He said he feels “at home” at Rangers and enjoys playing under pressure and expectation. He also said he is grateful for the chance to play regular football again and to rediscover his passion and enjoyment for the game.
He has not ruled out the possibility of extending his stay at Rangers beyond this season, saying he is open to any option that would benefit both him and the club. He said he is happy at Rangers and would love to continue working with Gerrard and his staff. He also said he is ambitious and hungry for more success, and wants to help Rangers defend their title and challenge for more trophies next season.
A Potential Return to the England Squad
Butland’s remarkable comeback at Rangers has not gone unnoticed by Gareth Southgate, the England manager, who is reportedly considering recalling him to the national team for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers in March. Butland has not played for England since 2018, but he remains the third most capped goalkeeper in the current squad, behind Jordan Pickford and Nick Pope.
Butland said he would be honoured and delighted to represent his country again, but he is not taking anything for granted. He said he is focused on his performances for Rangers and will respect any decision that Southgate makes. He also said he is happy for his fellow goalkeepers, who he considers as friends and competitors, and wishes them all the best.
He said he believes he still has a lot to offer to the England team, and he is confident in his ability and experience. He said he has learned a lot from his highs and lows in his career, and he is ready for any challenge that comes his way. He said he is proud of his achievements at Rangers and hopes to continue his form and fitness for the rest of the season.
