Exclusive: Rangers' Managerial Search Revealed - Exciting Candidates Making the Shortlist

We have learned that Rangers have already prepared a list of potential candidates to replace Michael Beale. Although Beale was dismissed on Sunday, the club has been consistently updating and refining the list of potential successors as part of their long-term planning process.

Rangers' planning under Beale was unrelated to performances or results, which is a common practice for clubs to be prepared for any circumstance. CEO James Bisgrove will stay in the UK this week to focus on the search for a new manager instead of attending Thursday's Europa League game against Aris Limassol. He is collaborating with chairman John Bennett and other senior club executives in the pursuit.

Multiple candidates, such as Kevin Muscat, Pascal Jansen, Frank Lampard, and John Eustace, are reportedly interested in the role. However, it is unclear if any of them will be approached by the club. Former Gers defender Muscat and AZ Alkmaar boss Pascal Jansen were previously mentioned as potential candidates, but a source in Holland has indicated that it would be challenging for Rangers to secure Jansen's services due to his current position as the second-place team in the Eredivisie.

St Mirren

Rangers

Sunday 8th October 11:00am

Kick off 12:00pm

Former Chelsea boss Graham Potter and Preston North End manager Ryan Lowe are not being considered for the position, as confirmed by We News. The appointment will not be made until after Sunday's game at St Mirren, as the club is currently focused on finding the right long-term fit.

Rangers are in search of their fourth manager within two years. This comes after Steven Gerrard left for Aston Villa in 2021, and subsequent dismissals of Van Bronckhorst, followed by Beale in the following years.

At present, Steven Davis is overseeing an interim management team consisting of former players Steven Smith and Alex Rae. Additionally, Brian Gilmour and goalkeeping coach Colin Stewart are part of the team.

St Mirren Rangers

We Kris Boyd says it is vital the board get the next appointment right with future recruitment key to any success:

The recruitment has been inadequate for several years, and it needs significant improvement. The team's performance has been inconsistent, with a lack of proper planning and dependency on individual talents, which has proven to be ineffective.

They have invested approximately £14m this summer and there is no player who could be acquired and sold for a profit.

The atmosphere during matchdays within the stadium is extremely negative, with the fans having reached their limit and demanding a change.

Managing Rangers is a demanding task, and perhaps now people will appreciate Steven Gerrard's job more.

While Michael Beale was responsible for much of the training, Gerrard successfully handled player management, which is no simple feat.

"Going forward Rangers have to find an experienced manager.

"I think since Walter Smith moved on years ago there have been appointments you would question.

'It takes a lot to manage Rangers'

Despite the Covid situation, Steven Gerrard was granted sufficient time to showcase his capabilities. Without this unprecedented situation, he may not have had the opportunity to pursue the attainment of an impressive 55 titles, but he ultimately succeeded.

Given the size and prestige of the club, it is highly likely that prominent individuals and well-known figures will instruct their agents to contact the Rangers board. Their goal will be to establish their eligibility and make a convincing case to be considered as the next person for a significant role within the club.

"I would refrain from mentioning specific names as it might seem like I am doubting their abilities. However, I can confidently state that this is a highly esteemed position, offering unparalleled opportunities at a renowned club where winning trophies is the ultimate goal.

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The level of expectation and demand I have witnessed surpasses anything I have experienced before. In my opinion, the club is currently in a favorable position. Some selling points include an upcoming cup semi-final, the ongoing Scottish Cup competition, and their presence in European tournaments.

Numerous opportunities are present within the club. I firmly believe that this is an exceptional team, supported by enthusiastic fans, who have high aspirations of winning trophies and competing at an elite level.

"I'd be really disappointed if the club didn't have massive names in the hat to then pick who they think is the best candidate."

'Expectation is bigger than I have ever seen'

Kenny Miller acknowledges that appointing an inexperienced team to temporarily take charge is a risky move. However, he emphasizes that the board requires sufficient time to ensure that the next manager chosen is capable of mounting a title challenge.

"It's a massive gamble to appoint Steven Davis, but when clubs find themselves in such circumstances, they must have someone leading the way."

Steven is a valuable asset, possessing a calm demeanor and an extensive knowledge of the club. As a long-time player and member of several triumphant teams, he is well-suited to handle the situation temporarily. However, it is crucial for this board to make the right choice in their next appointment, as it holds significant importance.

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Steven Davis has been appointed to lead an interim management team at Rangers. The club requires someone with a proven track record of achieving success and the necessary charisma to address the 50,000 fans every week, even during challenging times.

They must possess broad shoulders to bear the responsibility and oversee the affairs of this magnificent club.

The board is facing a crucial period ahead as they cannot afford to hastily make an impulsive decision. However, Steven and the management team are truly prepared for the challenge.

With the international break underway, they have a small window of time to carry out the necessary tasks.

It is important to note that the season is not completely doomed; there is potential for it to be salvaged. Therefore, I highly encourage a prompt and appropriate appointment to be made.

Next manager needs to have 'proven track record'

Davis expressed his gratitude upon receiving an unexpected call to assume the role of interim manager at Rangers following Beale's dismissal. Reflecting on his previous stints as a player at Ibrox, the Northern Irishman, aged 38, gladly accepted the invitation from the Gers board on Sunday evening to lead the team until the appointment of a permanent successor.

Speaking to Rangers TV on Monday, he expressed his gratitude, stating that he was truly honored. The unexpected offer took him by surprise, but he is determined to prove his worth and reciprocate the trust that the club has placed in him. Although the current situation is disappointing, he eagerly anticipates the challenge that lies ahead.

"I am thrilled to have this opportunity and have strong faith in the strength of our group. Although things have not unfolded as expected, we are determined to overcome this situation with the united support of both ourselves and the fans. Together, we can strive for positive outcomes.

"At Rangers, achieving results is our highest priority. Beyond that, my aim is to restore a sense of pride in our style of play and boost the confidence of the team."

"We have an exceptional group of individuals here. Having spent a significant amount of time with the majority of them, I have witnessed their dedication and commitment. My goal is to restore confidence in the team and provide them with the opportunity to showcase their talents and achieve their best performances.

While I had plans to pursue a management role in the future, I had not anticipated this opportunity. Nevertheless, it was an opportunity that I simply could not decline."

Davis 'honoured' to be appointed interim boss

October 5: Aris Limassol (a), Europa League, kick-off 5.45pm

I'm incredibly excited for the upcoming challenge and I anticipate it will be a fantastic experience. The significance of the club to me is widely recognized. My approach as a player remains unchanged - I will give my absolute best. With any luck, my best efforts will prove to be sufficient.

October 8: St Mirren (a), Scottish Premiership, kick-off noon - live on We

October 21: Hibernian (h), Scottish Premiership, kick-off 3pm

October 26: Sparta Prague (a), Europa League, kick-off 5.45pm

October 29: Hearts (h), Scottish Premiership, kick-off 3pm

Rangers' next five fixtures

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