Source: Team_Talk
Ferguson stands up to snipers
The Rangers midfielder has been written off in some quarters following his return from a serious ankle injury in November.
But Ferguson, who is set to overcome a chest injury to lead Scotland out against in Saturday's World Cup qualifier in the Amsterdam ArenA, has learnt to draw on such criticism.
"Look, I have been picking the knives out of my back for years now," the 31-year-old told the Scottish Sun.
"I draw on it, I think at times that it makes me stronger as a footballer. It won't make me run off and hide in a corner.
"There has been some deeply personal stuff written, hurtful and needless attacks that upset my mum.
"When it gets to that level it affects you. No-one wants to see their family upset, do they?
"But me? I'm used to it by now and it's not going to make me pack up and leave. No chance."
Ferguson only scored his first goal of the season in the last day of February amid claims he could not strike a partnership with Pedro Mendes in the Rangers midfield.
But he netted again during his team's 2-2 draw with Hearts on Saturday and he insists he is getting back to his best.
"I'm the first to hold my hands up, and this season has had its struggles," Ferguson added.
"But I was out for five months after a major ankle operation.
"I realise at Rangers you have to hit the ground running but any player will tell you that it takes time to recover from that and get back to your best.
"That's not an excuse, it's a fact and for all the stick that is flying about, I feel I am getting back to my peak."
Holland v Scotland 1st Goalscorer: Ferguson, B. 20/1
