Rangers can’t wait for Kevin Muscat after latest Shanghai Port footage
Rangers look set to appoint Kevin Muscat as their next manager, but fans may have to wait for his arrival from Shanghai Port.
The Gers sacked Russell Martin after the draw against Falkirk on 5 October, and have taken their time during the international break to look for a replacement.
Steven Smith will take charge at Ibrox against Dundee United on 18 October temporarily, as the Light Blues are yet to finalise the appointment of a permanent head coach.
Muscat is looking to finish the league season with Shanghai Port, which runs until 22 November, but the Glaswegian outfit should do everything in their power to bring him to G51 as soon as possible.
Kevin Muscat has first-hand involvement in Shanghai Port training
Muscat doesn’t seem to be the sort of manager who isn’t directly involved in running training sessions, which will certainly encourage the Gers’ supporters.
The former Australian defender was known for his tough character and will undoubtedly bring much-needed leadership to the dressing room, but may also want to be heavily involved in the day-to-day sessions involving the players.
Over the years, many head coaches have delegated responsibility to their coaching teams during training, but the Shanghai Port boss doesn’t seem to be that type.
At the Chinese Super League outfit, Muscat can be seen being vocal and in the mix during drills, and that personal involvement could potentially be vital at the Light Blues.
Martin didn’t inspire much confidence among the Ibrox faithful, with protests being held against him weeks before his dismissal.
The Shanghai Port boss knows what it’s like to be in a successful team in G51, where expectations are high, and he will arguably raise the standards of the current squad.
John Souttar to have hope after Kevin Muscat appointment at Ibrox
John Souttar has put in some impressive performances for Scotland this season, but the centre-back has had a dip in form at Ibrox.
Rangers conceded 24 goals under Martin, with the defensive structure all over the place as the players struggled with the former Southampton boss’ style of play.
| Competition | Matches | Wins | Draws | Losses | Goals conceded |
| Chinese Super League | 27 | 18 | 6 | 3 | 40 |
While Shanghai Port haven’t been the most resolute at the back this season, they make up for it with their attacking threat and creativity, something that’s missing from the Light Blues.
Souttar will hope that while Muscat will bring an attacking brand of football to G51, he will also address the defensive frailties that arose due to Martin’s system at Ibrox.
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