A “tremendous” manager is reportedly the front-runner to become Rangers’ new permanent boss this summer, following a key update on the club’s ongoing search.
Latest on Rangers’ managerial hunt
Rangers have endured a disappointing campaign overall, with Philippe Clement’s time in charge failing to live up to expectations. Barry Ferguson was brought in as an interim solution to lift morale and did manage to guide the team to the Europa League quarter-finals. However, with their European journey over and another Scottish Premiership title slipping away, attention has turned to finding a more experienced long-term manager.
Numerous candidates have been linked with the role. One name in the frame is Russell Martin, the former Southampton boss. Despite a tough season in the Premier League, the 39-year-old is still viewed as a promising coach who favors a possession-based approach. Steven Gerrard, who famously led Rangers to the 2020/21 title, has also been heavily linked with a return in recent weeks.
Gerrard emerges as the leading candidate
According to the Scottish Daily Express, Gerrard is now considered the favorite to take the reins at Ibrox, with 49ers Enterprises’ technical director Gretar Steinsson reportedly spearheading the move. The 44-year-old has been a prominent candidate throughout the search and is now seen as the most likely appointment.
While fan opinion is expected to be divided, many supporters would likely welcome Gerrard back, given the success of his previous stint. Ally McCoist, a Rangers legend, praised Gerrard and his staff for their remarkable 2020/21 campaign, highlighting their unbeaten European run and dominant league form.
Though there’s always a degree of risk in reappointing a former manager, history shows it can pay off—Walter Smith returned for a second spell and won another trio of titles. If Gerrard can replicate even part of that success, his comeback would be warmly received by the Ibrox faithful.
