Former Everton, Newcastle United and Liverpool men have all been discussed for the Rangers manager role by Ally McCoist.
Ally McCoist has shared the names of two bosses he’s heard are in the next Rangers manager running – including an ex Everton and Newcastle United gaffer.
The Ibrox great was on co-commentary duty on Thursday night as Barry Ferguson’s team secured an epic win away at Fenerbahce. A Cyriel Dessers-inspired display charged Rangers to a 3-1 win in the Europa League last 16 away from home as they continued to show they’re at their best in Europe.
This outcome contrasts with the domestic scene, where Philippe Clement was fired and they will undoubtedly finish the season without a trophy. Ferguson’s appointment is only valid until the end of the current campaign, and it is yet unclear who will take over permanently.
Whispers from former Rangers, Newcastle, and Everton players
There are a few names that McCoist has personally heard rumors about. One is Rafa Benitez, who has this week been linked with the role amid claims possible new Rangers ownership could look to speak with him. He has vast experience at elite clubs and was last in the UK with Newcastle United and Everton.
Steven Gerrard is another somebody McCoist is aware of. He was the last person to bring a championship to Ibrox nearly four years ago, but after playing in the Saudi Pro League, he is currently unemployed. McCoist is intrigued by Kevin Muscat, the former Rangers player who has achieved success in the Far East, but he is more interested in the former Liverpool pair he has heard are involved.
“Rafa Benitez is one of the names I’ve heard,” he told Football Insider. Although he has expressed interest in returning to the game, I believe he is more interested in the Premier League. Naturally, someone like Rafa would be interested in the Rangers position.
McCoist added: “The other one I’ve heard is Steven Gerrard coming back. He’s out of work, but I’m not sure what his current situation is. I think one of the slight problems might be would be him having to stay out of the country for tax reasons. Another one who interested me was Kevin Muscat, with his team currently trying to get into the Asian Champions League, but they’re struggling a little bit. He’s been very successful, having won a League Cup double in China.”
McInnes addressed
Additionally, there are no resentments regarding Derek McInnes’s assumption of the position. Although Kilmarnock is languishing toward the bottom of the Premiership table this season, McInnes has led the team out of the Championship and back into European football last season. The former Rangers player had a lengthy and successful stint at Aberdeen.
“Derek McInnes of Kilmarnock, his name has been put forward,” McCoist told Football Insider in reference to the Killie manager’s potential. Although he isn’t playing as well as he did the previous season, I still believe Derek is more than capable of handling the position given his familiarity with the team and the league.
