John Bennett return stance shared after blockbuster Rangers takeover news
John Bennett’s stance on returning to Ibrox has been shared after reports that 49ers Enterprises are in talks over a Rangers takeover.
It was reported on Wednesday (19 February) that talks of a takeover at Rangers started before January and are now in an advanced stage.
The potential new owners are keen to acquire enough shares to become the biggest shareholder at Ibrox in order to take control of the club.
John Bennett not returning to Ibrox
Although talks are in the advanced stages, there is still plenty to be done before a takeover will go through at Ibrox.
Therefore, supporters will be trying not to get too far ahead of themselves at this stage, not wanting to get their hopes up.
However, after a dismal time at Ibrox of late, those in the stands could not be blamed for their excitement that new times might be on their way to Glasgow.
According to the Daily Mail (20 February), a number of shareholders at Ibrox may be open to selling, if the right offer came along, including Bennett.
Bennett became chairman at Ibrox in 2023 but was stood down from his role last year because of ill health.
The Daily Mail’s report states that the 61-year-old has no desire to return to a prominent role at Ibrox which could give the 49ers more of a boost when it comes to acquiring shares.
Rangers takeover could spell the end for Philippe Clement
Due to the Gers’ poor form this season, there have been constant questions surrounding the future of Philippe Clement at Ibrox.
After a dismal Scottish Cup loss against Queen’s Park, it was almost surprising to see the Belgian hang on to his job and therefore, the pressure has to be piling on, even if the hierarchy in Glasgow claims otherwise.
However, if new owners came to Glasgow, surely it would mean that the current boss’ lives had run out and the correct way to signify a new era would be for a fresh start completely.
With the Light Blues sitting 13 points behind Celtic in the Scottish Premiership and their rivals competing in the Champions League, there have been plenty of comparisons between the two clubs this week with Rangers made to feel like the inferior team.
Therefore, it’s no surprise that the thought of a takeover that could not only increase investment but just generally bring higher standards back to the club will be exciting news for many at Ibrox.