Rangers manager Derek McInnes has made a surprising leadership decision ahead of the club’s pre-season clash with French side St Etienne, handing the captain’s armband to new signing Ben Godfrey.
The choice caught many supporters off guard, especially with Lawrence Shankland and Dan Neil—both of whom have worn the armband during pre-season—named in the starting lineup.
A New Era Begins at Rangers
Following the departure of long-serving captain James Tavernier, who left the club after 11 years and eight seasons as skipper, Rangers are preparing for a new chapter under McInnes.
The manager has repeatedly stressed that he is in no rush to appoint a permanent captain, insisting he wants to get to know his squad before making such an important decision.
Speaking earlier this summer, McInnes explained that he wants several leaders within the dressing room rather than relying on one voice.
“Someone needs to take the team down the tunnel, but Monday to Friday I need as many captains on the training pitch as possible,” he said.
Ben Godfrey Gets the Armband
For Rangers’ first home match of pre-season at Ibrox, McInnes entrusted Godfrey with captaincy duties.
The 28-year-old defender joined Rangers on a season-long loan from Italian side Atalanta, with an option to make the move permanent.
Although new to the club, Godfrey brings valuable experience from spells with Norwich City and Everton in the Premier League and has also earned two England caps.
His leadership qualities are well known, having captained Norwich on several occasions while still in his early twenties.
Fans React to the Surprise Choice
The decision quickly sparked debate among Rangers supporters.
Many were surprised to see Godfrey given the armband ahead of Shankland and Neil.
Some fans described the decision as “interesting,” while others suggested Godfrey’s vocal presence on the pitch may have influenced McInnes’ choice.
Others pointed out that the defender’s previous captaincy experience made him a logical candidate despite only recently arriving at Ibrox.
Godfrey Excited for Ibrox Debut
Ahead of the match, Godfrey admitted he was eager to finally play in front of the Rangers supporters.
“I’m buzzing about it. I saw the stadium when I signed and couldn’t wait to get on the grass and start playing.”
His appointment as captain for the evening may not indicate McInnes’ long-term plans, but it demonstrates the confidence the manager already has in the experienced defender.
Permanent Captain Still to Be Decided
McInnes has made it clear that Rangers’ permanent captain has not yet been chosen.
With pre-season continuing and several experienced players competing for leadership roles, the manager is expected to take his time before making a final decision.
For now, Ben Godfrey has earned the honour of leading Rangers onto the pitch, giving supporters another glimpse into how McInnes intends to shape his new-look squad ahead of the 2026/27 campaign.
