‘Madness’ – Tam McManus can’t believe what he’s reading about Rangers new manager update
Steven Gerrard has emerged as the leading candidate to become the next Rangers manager.
Russell Martin’s sacking has led to a whole host of managers being linked with the vacancy at Ibrox.
Steven Gerrard could be set for a Rangers return, with the majority of Bears supporters thrilled at the prospect of bringing back the 45-year-old.
However, the agreement will be complex, and not everyone is in agreement that Gerrard should be given a second spell at G51.
Steven Gerrard not worthy of return to Rangers
Gerrard became a cult hero for Rangers fans by winning the Scottish Premiership in 2020/21, stopping Celtic from achieving 10 league titles in a row.
Andrew Cavenagh will hold talks with Gerrard in the next few days, with the chairman facing pressure to appoint a new manager before the end of the international break.
Former Hibernian striker Tam McManus expressed his disapproval of Gerrard being given a second chance in Govan.
He said: “Gerrard is the one the Rangers fans want as the nostalgia of winning the league still high amongst the punters. Has he done anything since then though to merit a return to Rangers?
“Answer a firm no for me. One trophy in three and a half seasons and the fans are desperate for his return? Madness.”
Gerrard was lined up for a Rangers return in the summer, yet talks fell through, with the 49ers eventually opting for Martin.
The legendary Liverpool midfielder spent over three years at Ibrox between 2018 and 2021, building a great relationship with fans through his honesty when addressing the media after matches.
He built a dressing room of leaders who could withstand the pressure to play for Rangers, which Martin spectacularly failed to do.
The 45-year-old’s record at Rangers was impressive, averaging over two goals a game whilst conceding less than once per match.
However, Gerrard failed to achieve success in the domestic cup competitions, something that McManus and many other supporters hold against him.
To be a successful manager at Rangers, you must be competing for every domestic trophy and enjoy relative success in Europe to be considered a unanimous success, and Gerrard must achieve this should he be given a second chance.
- Read more: Rangers next manager round-up: Andrew Cavenagh flies in as Steven Gerrard gives his answer
Steven Gerrard’s record since leaving Rangers is disappointing
There are some doubts over Gerrard’s return as he hasn’t had much managerial success since leaving the Bears.
Gerrard left Rangers to join Aston Villa, where he lasted 11 months before being sacked after facing immense pressure from fans.
He then embarked on a managerial stint in Saudi Arabia and was appointed at Al-Ettifaq in the summer of 2023.
- Gerrard’s win percentage at Aston Villa: 32.5
- Gerrard’s win percentage at Al-Ettifaq: 39
- Since being sacked by the Saudi club in January, he has taken a break from management
Gerrard lasted 18 months in the Middle East, with his spell also being regarded as unsuccessful.
The Light Blues fans are anticipating the 49ers to act quickly to secure the services of a manager who could lead them forward after the disastrous start to the season.
If Gerrard does become the next Rangers manager, supporters will at least know what to expect from the Liverpudlian.
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