McCoist Exclusive: Steven Gerrard problem emerges for Rangers return

Steven Gerrard has been tipped for a potential return to Rangers but Ally McCoist has highlighted an issue ahead of Barry Ferguson's exit in the summer.

Patrick Stewart finally parted ways with Philippe Clement for the ex-skipper, having embarrassed the Gers against Queen's Park in the Scottish Cup, again versus St Mirren, and that was only in recent weeks.

Mick Brown told Football Insider last month that Gerrard would be open to a Rangers return, with the Liverpool legend maintaining strong connections at Ibrox.

The 44-year-old, who has experience with Aston Villa and Al-Ettifaq, oversaw 193 matches before parting ways with the Light Blues, but his time at Villa Park was not as positive as expected.

Rangers searching for Barry Ferguson replacement ahead of the summer

Gerrard is not the only name linked with the soon-to-be-vacant manager job at Ibrox, with McCoist telling Football Insider: "Another one who interested me was Kevin Muscat, with his team currently trying to get into the Asian Champions League, but they're struggling a little bit.

"He's been very successful, having won a League Cup double in China."

Football Insider revealed in January that Derek McInnes and Russell Martin are on Rangers' shortlist, alongside Steve Cooper and Muscat.

McCoist also told Football Insider that Rafa Benitez would be interested in joining Rangers.

With just a few matches of the 2024/25 campaign remaining, the boardroom will quickly need to come to a decision, though they may have to be patient as 49ers Enterprises look to complete a takeover at Ibrox.

Stewart finally made the decision to part ways with Clement, but with prospective new owners likely to complete a deal over the next few weeks, it would not make sense to make such big decisions right now.

Steven Gerrard issues arise at Rangers return mooted

Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, via talkSPORT BET, McCoist said:

"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.

"I think one of the slight problems might be would be him having to stay out of the country for tax reasons."

Gerrard was sacked by Saudi outfit Al-Ettifaq in January, winning just 39 per cent of his games in charge, yet many are still excited about the prospect of him returning to Scotland.