Former captain Barry Ferguson is reportedly in contention to join Rangers’ interim backroom team following the club’s recent decision to part ways with manager Philippe Clement. Ferguson, who enjoyed significant success during his two tenures at Ibrox, clinched five top-flight titles, five League Cups, and five Scottish Cups.
In addition to Ferguson, former players Neil McCann and Billy Dodds are being considered for roles in the upcoming coaching structure. This transition comes after Clement’s dismissal on Sunday, a result of a disappointing home defeat to St Mirren that has left Rangers 13 points adrift of league leaders Celtic with just 11 matches remaining.
Clement’s tenure included a shocking 1-0 Scottish Cup elimination against Championship outfit Queen’s Park and a League Cup final loss to Celtic. However, he does leave the club with a spot secured in the last 16 of the Europa League.
Additionally, assistant coaches Alex Rae and Stephan Van Der Heyden are expected to exit alongside Clement. Newly appointed assistant manager Issame Charai, who joined from Ligue 1’s Strasbourg, took charge of training on Monday.
As Rangers navigates through a thorough review of their football operations, they are also engaged in negotiations concerning a potential takeover. This period marks the fifth managerial search for the club since November 2021, leading many to speculate on suitable candidates to fill the role permanently.
Former manager Steven Gerrard, recently released from his duties in Saudi Arabia, is a prime candidate fans are keen to see return. Other notable names include Gennaro Gattuso, who has found success with Hajduk Split, and Kevin Muscat, who has significant experience coaching in Australia and Japan.
Kilmarnock’s Derek McInnes also remains a favored option among fans, having led his team to European football recently. Meanwhile, Russell Martin, formerly of Southampton, may also be considered as potential managerial talent.
Rangers are set for crucial matches ahead, including their next fixture against Kilmarnock in the Scottish Premiership on February 26. The club is eager to stabilize its future leadership, aiming to break free from a cycle of frequent managerial changes.
