National team boss George Burley revealed recently the 17-year-old is in his thoughts for next month's World Cup qualifier.

But Scotland and Rangers skipper Ferguson fears too much pressure is being put on the teenager after just six first-team outings.

He said: "It's crazy. He's only broken into the Rangers team and people are putting far too much pressure on him.

"He's the best talent to come through in years so let's get behind him.

"It's up to George to say what he thinks but we should just let him play and get on with his football. He's only 17 and just out of school."

Ferguson added: "I will always be there to help him.

"He was shy at first when he came in but he's a Glasgow boy and he has fitted in well.

"People are putting too much pressure on him. He's a great talent and he should be left to fulfil that.

"He's the best I've seen but you don't want to put too much pressure on him.

"He knows the pressures of playing for Rangers but he has a good head on his shoulders and has enough people here to tell him what not to do."