‘Rangers takeover impact update after Steven Gerrard talks held’
Rangers are working to find a replacement for caretaker boss Barry Ferguson despite Andrew Cavenagh and 49ers Enterprises takeover being a work in progress.
The club confirmed that Rangers’ 2-2 draw with Hibernian on Saturday (17 May) would be the former captain’s final match in charge [Rangers].
The Scot was brought in on a short-term deal to replace Philippe Clement, after the Belgian boss was sacked in February.
Whilst Rangers‘ domestic form continued to be problematic, the Bears continued their impressive European run under Ferguson, eventually being knocked out of the Europa League by Athletic Club.
However, with the club now looking for yet another permanent manager, multiple names have now been spoken to, including former boss Steven Gerrard, Sky Sports reports.
Rangers don’t need takeover completed to hire new manager
As reported, Rangers, new sporting director Kevin Thelwell and CEO Patrick Stewart will not need to wait for the completion of Andrew Cavenagh and 49er Enterprises’ prospective takeover to hire a new manager.
Whilst the takeover is ongoing, planning for next season has continued behind the scenes as the club weighs up decisions over player contracts and potential transfers.
Gerrard is available after leaving Al-Ettifaq in January, and the club have held talks with the Englishman about returning to Ibrox.
The club have also spoken to Real Madrid coach Davide Ancelotti, but the Italian may instead look to join up with his father Carlo when he takes over the Brazil national team [Ibrox News].
Amongst the other names being considered are Rob Edwards, Russell Martin, Danny Rohl, and Gary O’Neil.
Steven Gerrard Rangers return may not go as planned
Football Insider Verdict
Many Rangers fans still hold Gerrard in high regard, and rightly so, given he was the last man to lead them to an SPFL title.
However, the uncomfortable truth is that the Englishman has not progressed as a manager since departing Ibrox.
His disappointing spell at Aston Villa and Al-Ettifaq have been well documented, and even reuniting with Michael Beale whilst in Saudi Arabia failed to have an affect during his time there.
Nostalgia is a powerful thing, but with other candidates with more proven track records in recent years, Gerrard may not be the man for the job, as much as some want him to be.
Seeing the success that Frank Lampard has had with Coventry, it may be an idea for the Liverpool legend to join a club where there will be more opportunity for development, before then taking on a role like the Rangers job again.