Barry Ferguson departs Rangers as Tottenham coach emerges as managerial contender
Barry Ferguson has stepped down from his interim role at Rangers, and Ibrox decision-makers are now exploring the possibility of appointing a coach from Tottenham Hotspur as the club’s next permanent manager.
Ferguson, who stepped in midway through the season following Philippe Clement’s exit, oversaw his final match in charge against Hibernian at Easter Road on Saturday, 17 May.
Rangers’ search for a new head coach is being led by Patrick Stewart and Kevin Thelwell, with major updates expected soon. A shortlist has been compiled, and one of the candidates is reportedly on the coaching staff at Spurs.
Ryan Mason considered for Rangers job
According to talkSPORT (18 May), Tottenham assistant manager Ryan Mason has made the shortlist to become the next head coach at Ibrox.
Also under consideration are Steven Gerrard, Davide Ancelotti, Southampton boss Russell Martin, and former Luton Town manager Rob Edwards.
With pre-season preparations set to begin in early July, the club hierarchy is aiming to make an appointment swiftly.
Rangers fans want instant results as Celtic dominance continues
Supporters will expect the new manager to mount an immediate challenge to Celtic’s domestic supremacy, even as the incoming ownership and coaching staff find their footing.
Brendan Rodgers recently led Celtic to their fourth consecutive Scottish Premiership title, a streak that new investors Andrew Cavenagh and 49ers Enterprises will be keen to break after completing their takeover.
While Ferguson was reportedly interested in staying on, it appears the incoming regime is looking in a different direction.
Steven Gerrard remains the last manager to lead Rangers to the league title, but his subsequent spells at Aston Villa and Al-Ettifaq have seen mixed results.
The 49ers’ connections through Red Bull and Leeds United could lead them to a more experienced managerial candidate, rather than someone like Mason, who despite two stints as interim Spurs boss, has yet to manage a senior side on a permanent basis.
The managerial situation at Rangers is one to watch closely, with further developments anticipated in the days ahead.
