Steven Gerrard sources react to new Rangers manager appointment update

Steven Gerrard has been linked with a return to Rangers as the 49ers look to make their first appointment at Ibrox.

Since Barry Ferguson's exit, the search for a permanent manager has been underway, with several names mooted for the role.

The 49ers are said to be closing in on a decision, with an appointment expected in the coming days in order for preparations to get underway at Ibrox.

Gerrard could pull away from Rangers

The race to become Rangers boss has been ever-changing over the past weeks, as the American investors have been weighing up their options.

Davide Ancelotti has re-emerged as a front-runner for the role, after leaving Real Madrid alongside his father at the end of the La Liga campaign.

Meanwhile, despite looking as though he was heading to Leicester instead, it has now been reported that Russell Martin remains in contention for the role at Ibrox.

According to The Scottish Sun (27 May), Gerrard is still under consideration for a return to Rangers, where he previously lifted the Scottish Premiership title.

It is stated that sources close to Gerrard are suggesting that his mind is focused on spending time with his family in the coming months as he is set to become a grandfather for the first time.

With the Gers needing an appointment sooner, rather than later, this could well be influential in the 49ers' decision.

49ers have to be prepared for risk at Rangers

The possibility of returning to Gerrard at Rangers is understandably an attractive prospect because he has already proven his ability to achieve the success craved for by supporters.

However, the 49ers will be keen to show that they are here to kick off a new era at Ibrox, which surely means appointing a new face and taking a different route.

Martin is a less risky option than Ancelotti, given he has already had management experience and proved himself more than his Italian counterpart has had the opportunity to.

The 49ers certainly need to get moving, though, and make a call about the future of the Light Blues.