THE Russell Martin era is officially over at Rangers.
And the Ibrox club could look to go back to a much more successful time of things, according to a report.
Martin‘s horror 123-day reign as Rangers head coach was brought to an end on Sunday night.
As 10pm approach, a bombshell statement confirmed that the Gers had parted company with Martin just four months into a three-year contract.
His exit comes after weeks of intense fan pressure with fed-up Rangers fans repeatedly calling for him to be axed.
Raging punters prevented the team bus from leaving the Falkirk Stadium after yesterday’s 1-1 draw, with Martin being escorted out a side door and into a car by security to exit the ground.
Hours later, he was axed.
The draw at Falkirk was the latest dreadful result under Martin, who managed just one league win from seven games in charge and five wins in 17 matches across all competitions.
Attention now turns to who will replace him in the Rangers dugout and with the Light Blues languishing in eighth position and well off the pace with the leaders, it certainly isn’t going to be an easy task.
Several names have emerged as early contenders with the bookies.
Among them are ex-Sheffield Wednesday boss Danny Rohl, former Rangers defender Kevin Muscat and the ex-Burnley and Everton manager Sean Dyche.
Another name very much in the frame is Steven Gerrard.
Liverpool and England legend Gerrard, 45, was in charge of Rangers between 2018 and 2021.
He dramatically transformed the club’s fortunes, returning them to the European stage and winning the Scottish Premiership title in 2021, the Gers’ first title triumph in a decade.
Gerrard left the club just months after lifting the league trophy to join Aston Villa but was dismissed after just a year in that role.
He returned to football in a surprise move to the Saudi Pro League with Al-Ettifaq in July 2023 but left after 18 months in charge at the beginning of this year.
Gerrard has been out of work since.
But could an incredible return to the Rangers dugout be on the cards?
Well, The Guardian are reporting that Gerrard is ‘under strong consideration’ for the job.
He’s also been installed as the early favourite with several leading bookmakers.
Martin’s tenure came to an end last night with Rangers releasing a short statement at 9.40pm.
It read: “Rangers Football Club confirms that it has parted company with Head Coach, Russell Martin.
“While all transition periods require some time, results have not met the club’s expectations.
“Assistant Head Coach, Matt Gill, and First-Team Coach, Mike Williamson, will also be departing.
“Russell and his staff have worked exceptionally hard throughout their time at the club. We thank them for their efforts and wish them well for the future.
“Further updates from the club will follow in due course.”