The Ultimate Search: Unveiling the Perfect Replacement for Michael Beale at Ibrox

Rangers are not expected to name a replacement for Michael Beale until after Sunday's Scottish Premiership match against St Mirren. We have learned that the club is willing to be patient in order to find the right long-term candidate. In the meantime, Rangers legend Steven Davis will head an interim management team consisting of Alex Rae, Steven Smith, Brian Gilmour, and Colin Stewart.

Beale's replacement will be the fourth manager to lead Ibrox in the span of two years, after Steven Gerrard left for Aston Villa in 2021, and Giovanni van Bronckhorst and Beale were subsequently dismissed. Contrary to reports, it is believed that former Chelsea manager Graham Potter has not been considered for the position.

Ex-Gers defender Kevin Muscat - who succeeded Ange Postecoglou at Yokohama F Marinos when Postecoglou joined Celtic - has also been linked with the job.

St Mirren

Rangers

Sunday 8th October 11:00am

Kick off 12:00pm

Although it has been rumored that Muscat and AZ Alkmaar manager Pascal Jensen would be open to discussing a potential move to Rangers, the club has not made any formal approach yet. They are currently in the process of compiling a list of qualified candidates.

The search - led by CEO James Bisgrove and chairman John Bennett - is under way, but what do Rangers need?

St Mirren Rangers

"The board must ensure that the next appointment is made wisely, as future recruitment is crucial for achieving success. The team's recruitment has been insufficient for quite some time and it is essential to improve in this aspect."

At times, they have been all over the place, with seemingly impromptu actions hoping for individuals to step up, only to be disappointed by the lack of results. Despite spending approximately £14m this summer, it appears unlikely that they will be able to bring in anyone who can be sold at a profit.

The stadium atmosphere on matchdays is highly toxic, as the fans have reached their limit and change has become necessary. Managing Rangers is no easy task, and perhaps now people will truly appreciate the job Steven Gerrard has done.

"Michael Beale did a lot of the training but Gerrard was able to manage the players and that isn't easy.

"Going forward Rangers have to find an experienced manager.

Ever since Walter Smith's departure, there have been some questionable appointments. Although Steven Gerrard was afforded ample time, it is important to consider the impact of the Covid situation. Without it, perhaps he wouldn't have had the opportunity to pursue the elusive 55 titles, yet he ultimately did.

'It takes a lot to manage Rangers'

Former Rangers midfielder Kevin Thomson on We News:

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"When considering the size and prestige of the club, it is highly likely that prominent players and well-known individuals will instruct their agents to contact the Rangers board, aiming to secure the chance to present themselves as potential candidates.

"I prefer not to mention specific names because it would be speculative. However, it is important to acknowledge that this is a highly coveted opportunity to be part of a renowned and successful club, with the potential to attain significant achievements."

"The level of expectation and demand far exceeds anything I have witnessed before. In my opinion, the club is currently in a favorable position. Notably, they have a highly anticipated cup semi-final approaching, still have the Scottish Cup to compete for, and remain active in European competitions.

"There are ample opportunities available. I believe that this club is exceptional, with dedicated fans, aiming to achieve success and compete at a top-tier level for everyone to witness.

"I would feel quite let down if the club did not have highly reputed individuals in consideration, allowing them to select the most suitable candidate."

'Expectation is bigger than I have ever seen'

Taking the viewpoint that appointing a team lacking experience as an interim measure carries risks, Kenny Miller, nevertheless, maintains that the board requires sufficient time to ensure that the next manager selected is capable of leading a title challenge.

Appointing Steven Davis is undoubtedly a risky move, but in times of crisis, clubs have no choice but to assign someone a leadership role. Steven is an excellent choice as he possesses the qualities of being level-headed and an extensive knowledge of the club. Having been a player for an extended period and part of several triumphant squads, he is a valuable asset.

"He'll be able to front it in the short term, but this next appointment is really important for this board that they get the right guy.

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Steven Davis will lead an interim management group at Rangers

"They require an individual with a demonstrated history of achieving a certain level of success and additionally, they may require someone with the personal traits necessary to confidently face a crowd of 50,000 fans every week, even during difficult times, and confront any challenges head-on.

It is essential that this person possess resilience and the ability to handle the responsibilities required to effectively oversee this exceptional club."

The board is facing a crucial period ahead, and it is important to avoid hasty decisions. However, Steven and the management team have the benefit of the upcoming international break to dedicate more time to their tasks.

"The season isn't lost, this can be salvaged so I would like to see the right appointment made as soon as possible."

Next manager needs to have 'proven track record'

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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