Ibrox flops could learn from brave Fernando
JOHN HARTSON last night told Rangers’ gutless squad to take a long look at the courage of former star Fernando Ricksen.
During Sunday’s PFA Scotland Awards dinner, Hartson shared a stage with the brave Dutchman who has battled chronic illness in the public eye and refused to refused to back down against motorneurone disease.
And he says Gers current crop should look at former Ibrox midfielder Ricksen’s attitude and said: “I stood with a man who showed more commitment, desire and willingness to win and run around and stop Celtic than any of those players have done all season.
“Fernando epitomised what Rangers haven’t got now. He is doing the same now battling his illness.
“To go out in front of all those people shows he is so brave. He’s battling that condition on a daily basis. It’s so inspirational.
“He can’t talk. He can see everything, he can hear everything, he can lip read. I was sitting next to him. He was trying to laugh. He can’t move his arms or legs and is in a wheelchair.
“The bravery and heart he’s showing is incredible. He was the same as a player. It’s people like him that you want at a club.”
Hartson says the players have been a disgrace to Murty and Rangers should ensure he’s not hung out to dry.
He said: “I know there’s no room for sentiment in football but there must be a job for Graeme, to go back to the academy.
“That man’s given his heart and soul. He’s had it difficult.
“The writing is on the wall. He won’t get the manager’s job but he clearly loves Rangers.”