AliousAlly McCoist Breaks Silence on Gerrard Return Talk as Rangers Search for Long-Term Manager
Rangers’ pursuit of a permanent managerial figure continues, with interim boss Barry Ferguson still in the hot seat—though recent results have done little to strengthen his case for the role. Sunday’s 1-1 draw with Celtic, in which Cyriel Dessers’ opener was canceled out by Adam Idah, highlighted both the team’s competitive potential and its lingering inconsistencies.
Steven Gerrard, the former Rangers manager who led the club to their first Scottish Premiership title in a decade in 2021, has emerged as a contender to return. However, club legend Ally McCoist has offered a measured take on both Ferguson’s performance and Gerrard’s possible comeback.
Speaking on *talkSPORT* (5 May), McCoist praised Ferguson’s efforts: “He’s done a solid job. The team’s performances have improved, and there’s a renewed sense of pride. But to be honest, I don’t think he’ll be given the job permanently. The incoming owners will likely want to install someone of their own choosing.”
On the topic of Gerrard’s potential return to Ibrox, McCoist acknowledged that his name is circulating but didn’t commit to supporting the idea, saying simply: “They’re talking about it—there are a few names in the mix.”
With 49ers Enterprises set to finalize their takeover, the next managerial appointment will be their first major move. For Rangers fans desperate to see their club compete toe-to-toe with Celtic again, it’s a decision that carries immense weight.
Gerrard remains a revered figure among the Ibrox faithful for his 2021 triumph. However, his trajectory since has been less inspiring—he was dismissed from Aston Villa in late 2022 and endured a short-lived stint in Saudi Arabia with Al-Ettifaq, which ended with his sacking in January 2024.
While a return could reignite past glories, it also carries risks. The club must now weigh sentimentality against strategy as they chart the path forward.
Alious
