Steven Gerrard in frame for Glasgow Rangers comeback after Russell Martin is dismissed.
The Anfield icon is under serious review for a surprise reappointment to the Scottish giants following the announced departure of manager the former Southampton coach.
The manager's disastrous spell at Rangers comes to a close
His troubled period in Glasgow finished with the gaffer exiting the Falkirk's ground via a back exit and a pre-arranged transport after a 1-1 draw which left the Glasgow side a significant margin from the peak of Scotland’s top flight after just seven fixtures.
Angry fans had surrounded the Rangers team bus in the away ground, making their feelings clear.
Rangers board reluctant to dismiss the manager
The club directors had been unwilling to part with the former Swansea boss, who was only appointed in the summer, despite vociferous protests from the fanbase.
However, there was an understanding that the manager's position had become unsustainable.
The team have secured just a single victory of their Premiership matches to date, which has been coupled with disappointing displays in European competition.
Collectively, Martin managed only five wins of 17 fixtures, with a passive, confused brand of football that earned him few friends.
“Although rebuilding phases need patience, outcomes have failed to reach the club’s expectations,” announced a club announcement on Sunday night.
“Assistant head coach Matt Gill, and first-team coach Williamson, will also be moving on. Russell and his staff have put in tremendous effort throughout their spell. We are grateful for their dedication and wish them well for the next chapter.”
The former manager claimed the league with the team
Gerrard won the title with the Glasgow club in that campaign, their lone triumph since 2011.
His performance in Glasgow before then, alongside difficulties at Villa, brings doubts about his managerial capabilities.
Yet he is greatly respected by the very fanbase the team are keen to get back on side.
The return of the former Reds star, who previously worked in Saudi Arabia, would be widely welcomed.
Gerrard will also be aware of what few options he has to be a manager in top-tier competitions.
The departure will intensify scrutiny on Thelwell
The manager's departure will intensify scrutiny on Thelwell, the club's recruitment chief.
He had been very backing of the gaffer while disclosing a net spend of a significant sum in the transfer window.
Martin had agreed to a multi-year agreement.
His past roles
The manager, who had previously coached MK Dons and the Swans, managed the Saints to elevation to the Premier League in 2024 after being brought in the earlier window.
He was sacked last December after the Southampton won only one of their initial 16 matches.
He was appointed the interim boss's successor in June, after the interim head coach had replaced the dismissed Clement in the earlier part of the year.
