Steven Gerrard in frame for Rangers comeback after Martin is dismissed.
Steven Gerrard is a leading candidate for a surprise reappointment to Rangers following the confirmed sacking of manager the former Southampton coach.
His ill-fated Ibrox tenure concludes
His ill-fated Ibrox tenure concluded with the manager departing the Falkirk's ground via a side door and a pre-arranged transport after a share of the points which left Rangers eleven points adrift from the summit of Scotland’s top flight after just seven fixtures.
Angry supporters had gathered around the club coach in Falkirk, expressing their anger.
Rangers board reluctant to part with the manager
The Rangers board had been reluctant to dismiss Martin, who was only brought in in last month, despite loud objections from fans.
However, there was an acknowledgement that the 39-year-old’s position had become impossible.
The team have managed only one win of their league fixtures to date, which has been coupled with poor showings on the continental stage.
Overall, the coach secured just five victories of 17 competitive matches, with a uninspiring, unclear footballing philosophy that won over few admirers.
“Although rebuilding phases need patience, outcomes have not met the team's standards,” said a club announcement on Sunday evening.
“Deputy manager Matt Gill, and first-team staff member Williamson, will also be moving on. Russell and his staff have worked exceptionally hard throughout their tenure. We are grateful for their efforts and send best wishes for the future.”
Steven Gerrard secured the championship with the team
Gerrard claimed the league with Rangers in that campaign, their sole title since 2011.
His achievements in Scotland before then, alongside difficulties at Villa, brings doubts about his coaching abilities.
Yet he is held in high esteem by the very group of supporters the team are keen to get back on side.
The return of the Anfield legend, who most recently coached in the Saudi league, would generate significant excitement.
The coach will also be mindful of what few options he has to be a gaffer in major divisions.
The sacking will increase pressure on the sporting director
The coaching change will intensify scrutiny on Kevin Thelwell, the Rangers sporting director.
He had been very backing of the coach while publicly revealing a transfer outlay of a significant sum in the off-season.
Martin had put pen to paper on a multi-year agreement.
His previous experience
The manager, who had formerly managed the Dons and Swansea, managed Southampton to a rise to the English football's elite in 2024 after being brought in the prior offseason.
He was dismissed last the end of the year after the the club secured just a single victory of their initial 16 matches.
He was appointed Barry Ferguson’s successor in June, after the interim head coach had replaced the fired Philippe Clement in February.
