‘Rangers can abandon Kjetil Knutsen approach’ as Bodo/Glimt chief speaks out
Rangers have to move on from Bodo/Glimt boss Kjetil Knutsen as the search for a permanent manager continues at Ibrox.
The Gers opted to bring in Barry Ferguson as an interim head coach earlier in the season when Philippe Clement was eventually sacked.
As a result, it looks likely that a new face will be in the Govan dugout when the new Scottish Premiership season kicks off after the summer.
Although the Light Blues hierarchy may be centring in on potential appointment options, they can end their hope of getting Knutsen.
Rangers to fail in Knutsen approach at Bodo/Glimt
There has been a number of names linked with the vacant seat at Ibrox, with many catching the eye of supporters ahead of the campaign’s end.
The most recent name to be mooted in G51 is former Borussia Dortmund and RB Leipzig boss Marco Rose, who has excellent experience.
It is a similar story for Knutsen, who has also been linked with a switch to Glasgow after a stellar period in charge of the Norwegian outfit.
The 56-year-old has been in charge at the Aspmyra Stadion for eight years and has taken charge of four league title wins in that time.
| Stat | Kjetil Knutsen |
| Matches | 319 |
| Wins | 190 |
| Draws | 67 |
| Losses | 62 |
As a result, it is little wonder that the Light Blues and Leeds United would be interested in his services ahead of the new season.
With that being said, Bodo/Glimt technical director Havard Sakariassen has spoken out against the Norwegian coach leaving any time soon.
In an interview with BBC Sport (30 April), he said: “It’s his eighth year here, so we have been on a long journey together trying to build Bodo/Glimt to what it is today.
“I know that he enjoys being in Bodo, enjoys working at this club. He’s probably had some really good offers along the way, and should he, for some reason, decide to do something else, I think we should applaud him to the airport and say thank you.
“But I’m not afraid of that at all. I think that we will work here for more years to come – but who knows?”
Rangers must assess new manager targets at Ibrox
Although Knutsen would have represented an excellent appointment for the Gers, it appears that the chances of getting him are low.
As a result, moving on to other targets makes more sense, especially with the 49ers hoping to secure their takeover in the coming weeks.
This could see the likes of Jose Mourinho become linked more closely to the job after speaking out on the role earlier in the campaign.
Steven Gerrard has also been linked with a return to Govan, but that would certainly be met by a mixed reception after his departure to Aston Villa.
There are many options to choose from, and it will be interesting to see who comes in if Knutsen isn’t available to take up the role.