Daniel Lewis

Sun 8 October 2023 7:10, UK

The managerial picture at Rangers could become a little clearer on Sunday (8 October) depending on events 742 miles away in Amsterdam when Ajax host AZ.

AZ can climb top of Eredivisie should they win at Johan Cruyff Arena and current leaders PSV lose to Sparta Rotterdam.

So how does this effect Rangers in any way? Well, AZ are coached by Pascal Jansen, who is said to be one of three contenders still in the running to take charge at Ibrox along with Kevin Muscat and Philippe Clement.

However, as reported by Sky Sports on Friday (6 October), Jansen is unlikely to move clubs at this stage as AZ have a rare chance of challenging for the Dutch top-flight crown.

Even if they do not finish the weekend top of Eredivisie, a victory for AZ away at heavyweights Ajax would have them in a very strong position with eight matches played.

On the basis of what was reported by Sky Sports, it will be even more unlikely that Jansen will even consider holding talks with the Gers, meaning the shortlist – in theory, at least – will be down to two.

Alternatively, AZ could find themselves five points behind PSV, and all of a sudden the picture may change slightly for Jansen.

Rangers intend to appoint a new manager during the two-week international break, so they cannot wait any longer to hold talks with Jansen – and nor should they.

In fairness to Jansen, you can totally understand why he wants to stay at the Dutch club given the position that they find themselves in.

At the same time, the Gers should not pursue any candidates who do not make it clear they would be happy to manage the Light Blues.

If all the recent speculation is to be believed, in wake of Frank Lampard being ruled out of the running, then it will likely be a shootout between Muscat and Clement for the top job.

A week on from Michael Beale’s sacking, an appointment appears to be edging ever so nearer.

In other Rangers news, whoever takes over at Ibrox has been given hope of a brighter future for the club.