Barry Ferguson defended Michael Beale after a radio talk show caller demanded that the Rangers manager should resign from his position.

The Ibrox boss was on the end of a 1-0 defeat to rivals Celtic today in the first Old Firm derby of the Scottish Premiership season.

Brendan Rodgers’ Hoops are now four points clear of Rangers in the league heading into the international break and for caller Derek, he has seen enough of Beale’s Gers.

He said: “Good afternoon panel. The manager has to resign.

“There can be no excuses today and Barry the cheerleader Ferguson, never mind defending this man tonight.

“This man should resign and take the failed duds that he has bought and the dud of a captain.”

Ferguson then butted in, responding: “Derek, what are you on about cheerleader?”

Derek then fiercely hit back: “You constantly try and back the manager. When was the last time we won a key game? He is an absolute dud of a manager who should be nowhere near Rangers.”

Ferguson then said: “Listen, we are four games into a season and you get beat by Celtic today…”

Derek then had another go: “Don’t make excuses Barry. You are four points behind a rubbish Celtic team.

“The man should resign if he has any dignity.”

Ferguson responded: “Well listen, I totally disagree with you. There you go. I’m allowed my opinion.”

Derek then fired back: “You are a cheerleader for him. Football should be entertainment and it is absolute dross that we are watching.”

Ferguson then added: “Don’t call me a cheerleader Derek. You are talking absolute nonsense.”

The caller was then asked to take a deep breath before Ferguson butted in saying “don’t let him take a deep breath he is talking absolute nonsense”.

Derek then concluded: “That is absolutely dreadful. When was the last time Barry saw an entertaining game at Rangers? You are up against a poor Celtic team and his tactics are a disgrace.

“£6million on a striker and you have not picked him once. It is the same failed people who have let Rangers down.”

Ferguson agreed, saying: “I said that when the team was announced. When you spend just under £6million on a player and he is not starting. That is a concern. I agree with you there.

“But don’t come on here and say I am a cheerleader. You are talking absolute garbage.”

Derek finished by asking Ferguson if Beale should continue as manager and he added “Yes I do just now”. Derek then said: “Na you are kidding yourself on.”