WE DESERVE TO GET OUR BUTS KICKED

Goalie says raging Gers fans have every right to call out stuttering stars in banner

- SCOTT MCDERMOTT

HE was at the opposite end of Ibrox but Jack Butland could still read it.

A banner was unfurled from the Union Bears section of the ground during Saturday's first half against Dundee United.

And this one wasn't aimed at the Rangers board, Patrick Stewart or Kevin Thelwell.

No, this one was directed solely at the players and Butland heard it loud and clear.

It read: "No more buses to hide on. No more managers to hide behind. Face your failures like men." With beleaguered ex-boss Russell Martin finally out the door, the fans focus had turned to those on the pitch.

It was in reference to their previous Premiership game at Falkirk, a 1-1 draw that ultimately got Martin the sack.

Afterwards, supporters tried to stop the team bus leaving with a sit-down protest before being forced away by cops, while Martin had to be sneaked out a back door and into a waiting car.

Butland is big enough and experienced enough to take the flak.

The harsh truth is that he's one of very few players in the Rangers' dressing room who is willing to publicly take responsibility.

During this woeful run of earlyseason form, the English keeper has stood up to be counted.

Record Sport witnessed this first hand after their recent Europa League defeat to Graz in Austria.

Before getting on the bus, Butland stood speaking to angry punters who were remonstrating over yet another dismal display.

It was the same at the weekend after their 2-2 draw with United.