In the aftermath of Michael Beale’s dismissal and the frenzy surrounding his possible replacement, it would be easy to forget that troubled Rangers have a hugely important Europa League fixture against Aris Limassol in Cyprus this evening.
Beleaguered Rangers Need Europa League Tonic
Managerless Rangers In Europa League Action
The Light Blues appear stuck in a never-ending cycle of anticipation followed by a heavy dose of despair. An autumnal search for a new manager has become an annual event, and unlike on the previous two occasions, no outstanding candidate is leading the charge up the iconic marble staircase.
With a large and passionate fanbase, consensus within the Rangers family is a rare commodity. The mere suggestion of Frank Lampard as a possible replacement for Beale has, though, managed to unite large sections of the Ibrox faithful in disdain at the prospect – and it is easy to see why.
Frank Lampard in the Mix for Rangers Job
The former midfield maestro amassed just 35 points from 38 games at Everton, and in his most recent role as caretaker Chelsea boss, he registered a solitary league victory. His managerial record is a source of fun on social media, and despite his early work at Derby and Chelsea being relatively encouraging, it is difficult to make a case for him becoming responsible for correcting Rangers’ latest omnishambles.
Read More: Beale on Borrowed Time
Other names mooted include Kevin Muscat, Pascal Jansen, and Philippe Clement – most recently in charge of Monaco. Jansen, the AZ Alkmaar Head Coach, has distanced himself from the vacancy. Clement is the most appealing option due to his three titles with two different clubs in Belgium, yet he is assumed to be in dialogue with Al-Shabab in Saudi Arabia.
Rangers are Stumbling Around In the Dark
Rangers have made it clear they will take their time to find the right candidate, although the need for a new manager was apparent from the moment the final whistle blew against Celtic last month. Beale’s position was untenable, yet dithering from the directors ensured the previous incumbent inflicted further damage before decisive action was finally taken.
Read More: Rangers Need Europa League Pick-Me-Up as Pressure Mounts on Michael Beale
Steven Davis will guide the team through the next two fixtures. He inherits a team bereft of confidence and a squad hampered by injuries, yet they still expect to emerge from Limassol later with a positive result. A victory would give the club breathing space, but at this point, the upcoming international break has never looked more appealing for those of a blue persuasion.
The Rangers Hierarchy Cannot Make Another Managerial Mistake
A period of calm would be most welcomed by those in lofty positions at Ibrox, but due to the lack of palatable candidates for the managerial vacancy, further dissent from the terraces is unlikely to be too far away. The leadership at Rangers continues to evolve, but poor decision-making remains a constant.
The men in power, quite simply, have to get the next managerial appointment right, or supporter-ire will ricochet the dugout to the director’s box.
