Rangers search for new manager after Steven Gerrard's exit

Rangers are searching for a new manager after Steven Gerrard left to join Aston Villa.

Gerrard ended a three-and-a-half year stint at Ibrox, which saw him lead the champions to their first Premiership title in a decade.

Sporting director Ross Wilson has now been tasked with identifying the Englishman’s successor, who will inherit a side that’s top of the league and still competing on four fronts.

STV News understands that a shortlist of potential candidates has been drawn up.

Rangers are next in action on Sunday, November 21 when they take on Hibs in the League Cup semi-finals at Hampden.

Four days later, they face a crunch Europa League group-stage tie with Sparta Prague at Ibrox.

Gerrard took charge at Rangers in 2018 with the target of ending Celtic’s dominance of domestic trophies.

The former Liverpool captain revamped his squad and led them to the knockout stages of the Europa League two seasons running before lifting the league title in his third season.

This season, the club faltered early on and missed out on qualification for the Champions League, but are currently at the top of the Premiership table, hopeful of progressing in the Europa League and have already booked a place in the semi-finals of the League Cup.

‘I fell in love’

Writing on his Instagram account following his departure, Gerrard said: “I want to say a heartfelt thank you to everyone associated with Glasgow Rangers, especially the fans, for the love and support you’ve all shown me during my time in Scotland.

“Winning ’55’ will always hold a special place in my heart – each and every one of you played a part in that and, believe me, there will be many more to come.

“I hope in time you can understand and accept my decision to move on but I honestly fell in love with the club and will always follow the team.

“Once a Ranger, always a Ranger #55.”