The Under-19s manager has been leading first-team training sessions following the dismissal of Russell Martin after the 1–1 draw with Falkirk — a result that left Rangers sitting eighth in the league table. The Rangers Review understands that Steven Smith is now expected to take charge from the dugout when Jim Goodwin’s side visit Ibrox in the first match after the international break.
Earlier today, it was revealed that the Ibrox board are finalising a deal for Kevin Muscat, who has been identified as their top candidate for the vacant managerial role. Chairman Andrew Cavenagh, who is overseeing the process alongside vice-chairman Paraag Marathe and 49ers Enterprises technical director Gretar Steinsson, is known to be a long-time admirer of Muscat. The club are reportedly working on personal terms and a seven-figure compensation agreement to facilitate his return to Rangers, where he famously won the domestic treble under Alex McLeish in 2003.
Currently managing Shanghai Port in the Chinese Super League, Muscat is on the verge of securing another league title. The 52-year-old has already enjoyed success with Melbourne Victory and Yokohama F. Marinos, and reports from China suggest his current club have begun searching for a replacement amid growing expectations that he will depart for Ibrox.
While Muscat is keen to return to Glasgow as soon as possible, he also hopes to finish the season in China as a champion. With the Super League campaign running until November 22, Rangers have drawn up a short-term contingency plan to cover the coming weeks.
As part of that plan, Steven Smith is set to make his managerial debut on Saturday, supported by assistants Brian Gilmour and Rhys Owen, head of performance, along with goalkeeping coach Sal Bibbo. The trio have remained at the club following Martin’s departure after just 17 games in charge.
It was also reported on Wednesday night that Danny Röhl has withdrawn from contention for the head coach position. Röhl, who was interviewed during the summer before Martin’s appointment, was reconsidered last week and had shown a strong desire to take charge immediately ahead of a pivotal run of domestic and European fixtures.
Rangers now prepare for a busy schedule, with a Europa League clash against Brann on Thursday night, followed by league matches against Kilmarnock and Hibernian — before a high-stakes League Cup semi-final against Celtic at Hampden Park.
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