Credit: Imago

Dan Godfrey

Thu 1 May 2025 8:08, UK

Rangers are underway in their search for a new manager, based on the activities behind-the-scenes of 49ers Enterprises.

The company’s director, Gretar Steinsson, has been revealed to be holding discussions with potential replacements for Barry Ferguson, who arrived on an interim basis in February.

Ferguson has done enough in the eyes of some to be a permanent fixture in place of the sacked Philippe Clement, while others believe Gers can shop in a more glamorous market depending on options.

Gordon Smith stands up for Ferguson amid 49ers search

Ferguson has masterminded some memorable days and nights across his short interim stint back at Rangers.

These have included the Old Firm away victory at Celtic – the two reuniting at Ibrox this weekend (4 May) – as well as surpassing Jose Mourinho of all opponents over two legs against Fenerbahce in the Europa League.

Steinsson has been reportedly discussing the role with a new list of candidates, but Gordon Smith – formerly both a player and director of football in Govan – believes Ferguson must be considered based on his knowledge of what is required to represent Rangers.

Speaking to the Daily Record (30 April), Smith said: “I don’t like to write people off. He’s had to take over that group of players and he’s maybe also putting in ideas they’re finding hard to cope with.

“If he can get players in who can actually do the job he’s looking to have them do, then he could maybe be a successful manager.

“He knows the club, what’s required at Rangers and his team of people are the very same. They’ve been through it, they’ve experienced it.”

Rangers have hit another rough spell of form, but approach the Old Firm with a clear mind following last weekend’s frustrating draw with St Mirren (26 April).

Rangers must get key decisions right

Rangers have faltered too many times in decisions they have made not just on the field, but in the boardroom as well.

That disorganisation and dithering has looked poor from the outside, and supporters are excited for a much-needed fresh wave of optimism through the imminent American takeover.

The sooner it is complete, the better, and Rangers can enjoy a summer of improving and striving for success.

Whoever the manager at Ibrox will be come the big kick-off in August, there needs to be the adequate level of investment to reassemble a squad capable of competing.

If Rangers fans notice a marked improvement quickly, they will get fully behind what they see and Gers can enjoy a new-found positivity next year as they challenge for the glitzy domestic honours.