Rangers’ Managerial Search Continues as Barry Ferguson Stakes His Claim
Rangers are still in pursuit of their next permanent manager, and journalist Keith Jackson has provided fresh insights into the situation.
Rangers’ Hunt for a Full-Time Boss Ongoing
A number of candidates continue to be linked with the role at Ibrox, assuming Barry Ferguson remains in charge only on an interim basis until the end of the season. Among the names mentioned, Rafa Benitez stands out as the most high-profile option. The former Liverpool and Real Madrid boss is reportedly interested in the job, having been without a club since leaving Celta Vigo last season. With a Champions League title to his name, Benitez would represent a major coup for the club.
Meanwhile, Gers legend Ally McCoist has weighed in on Steven Gerrard’s potential return, saying:
“The other one I’ve heard is Steven Gerrard coming back. He’s out of work, but I’m not sure what his current situation is. One issue might be that he would need to stay out of the country for tax reasons.”
There have also been rumors surrounding Jose Mourinho, as well as speculation that Ferguson could be given the job permanently, depending on his performance over the coming weeks.
Cavenagh Impressed with Ferguson’s Impact
According to The Daily Record’s Keith Jackson, takeover partner Andrew Cavenagh is reportedly considering Ferguson as a serious contender for the permanent role. The 47-year-old is said to be “absolutely bursting” to take the job full-time, with Cavenagh present for Rangers’ 3-1 Europa League victory over Fenerbahce last week. The report suggests that his firsthand experience of that win may have given the incoming consortium something significant to think about.
Jackson also notes that the next six days could be pivotal for Ferguson, offering him a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity” to stake his claim for the position. Rangers are set to face Fenerbahce again in the Europa League before a crucial showdown against Celtic in the Scottish Premiership.
Ferguson has already restored a sense of unity at the club, with his deep connection to Rangers and its supporters helping to lift morale following Philippe Clement’s departure. Should Cavenagh and 49ers Enterprises complete their takeover and play a key role in selecting the next manager, Ferguson could realistically be in contention for the job.
As Jackson points out, if Ferguson can guide Rangers past Fenerbahce into the Europa League quarter-finals and then secure a memorable win over Celtic, his chances of being appointed permanently would be significantly boosted.
That said, Ferguson lacks the managerial experience of candidates like Benitez or Gerrard, meaning appointing him would carry a degree of risk. The 49ers must ensure sentimentality does not overshadow strategic decision-making when determining the best long-term choice for the club.
