AliousWhen a manager’s tenure starts to show signs of unraveling—potentially the case with **Philippe Clement** at **Rangers**—it’s only natural to reflect on the candidates who were once in the running for the job. Who were the alternatives before Clement took over from **Mick Beale** in October 2023? And, more importantly, how many of those names are still viable options a year and a half later, especially after Rangers’ shocking **Scottish Cup** defeat to second-tier **Queen’s Park**, a loss that has undone much of the goodwill Clement earned with an impressive start to 2025?
### **The Managers Rangers Considered Before Appointing Clement**
At one point, **Frank Lampard** seemed to be the frontrunner alongside Clement. The former **Chelsea** and **England** star even received backing from Rangers legend **Graeme Souness**, who vouched for his suitability. However, Lampard has since returned to management with **Coventry City**, likely ruling him out of any immediate interest from Rangers.
Meanwhile, **Pascal Jansen**, who was previously in charge of **AZ Alkmaar**, has found a new challenge as the head coach of **New York City FC**, preparing for the upcoming **MLS** season. **Graham Potter**, once linked with the Ibrox hot seat, is now tasked with rebuilding **West Ham United** following the turbulent **Julen Lopetegui** era.
Then there’s **John Eustace**, another name once floated around as a potential Rangers boss. But by the time Rangers make any decision—especially after CEO **Patrick Stewart** publicly backed Clement as recently as January—Eustace might have already committed his future elsewhere.
### **John Eustace Set for Surprise Move to Derby County**
In a surprising twist, Eustace is on the verge of leaving **Blackburn Rovers**, a club currently sitting in sixth place in the **Championship**, to take over at **Derby County**, who are battling relegation in the same division. Blackburn confirmed on Monday that Eustace had been granted permission—albeit “reluctantly”—to enter talks with Derby.
This move raises eyebrows, given that Eustace is leaving a potential promotion contender to fight for survival with a struggling side. However, it’s less baffling when considering Eustace’s emotional ties to Derby, where he spent the final six years of his playing career. According to the **Lancashire Telegraph**, Eustace has agreed to take the job at **Pride Park**, drawn by the opportunity to help rescue a club close to his heart, even if it means walking away from a possible playoff push with Blackburn.
Blackburn’s statement reflects their frustration:
> *“Blackburn Rovers can confirm that head coach John Eustace has requested permission to speak with another Championship club, following the activation of a clause in his contract. The club is extremely disappointed by John Eustace’s request to hold discussions with another club at such a crucial stage of the season, but this has now been reluctantly granted.”*
### **What This Means for Rangers’ Future**
With Eustace seemingly off the market soon, Rangers are watching potential options dwindle. By the time Clement’s tenure comes to an end—if that decision is made—Eustace, Lampard, Jansen, and Potter may all be unavailable, having secured roles elsewhere.
This leaves Rangers’ board facing a crucial dilemma:
– **Do they act now**, potentially without a clear replacement lined up, risking instability mid-season?
– Or **do they wait until summer**, giving Clement more time to turn things around while also allowing the club to thoroughly assess the managerial landscape for the right successor?
Whatever the decision, Rangers find themselves at a crossroads. Clement’s early promise is now overshadowed by recent failures, and the board must weigh the risks of sticking with him against the challenges of finding the right replacement in an increasingly limited market.
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