Rangers Turn to Steven Smith for Interim Leadership Ahead of Dundee United Clash

Rangers are set to navigate a critical juncture in their season with Under-19 coach Steven Smith taking interim charge for their upcoming Premiership match against Dundee United, following the dismissal of manager Russell Martin.

The Rangers Review reports that Smith, who has been overseeing first-team training since Martin’s exit after a disappointing draw with Falkirk, will lead the team from the dugout this weekend as the club works to finalize a permanent appointment.

Martin’s sacking came after just 17 matches, with Rangers languishing in eighth place in the Premiership standings. The Rangers Review highlights that the Ibrox board, led by chairman Andrew Cavenagh alongside vice-chairman Paraag Marathe and 49ers Enterprises technical director Gretar Steinsson, has identified Kevin Muscat as their top target to replace Martin. Muscat, a former Rangers player who won the treble under Alex McLeish in 2003, is currently managing Shanghai Port in the Chinese Super League, where he is on the verge of securing another title. The board is reportedly negotiating personal terms and a seven-figure compensation package to bring the 52-year-old back to Glasgow. However, with the Chinese Super League season extending until November 22, Muscat’s immediate availability remains uncertain, prompting Rangers to rely on Smith for the interim period.

“Steven Smith is set to take charge of Rangers on their return to Premiership action against Dundee United this weekend,” the Rangers Review confirmed, noting that Smith has been supported by assistant Brian Gilmour, head of performance Rhys Owen, and goalkeeper coach Sal Bibbo, all of whom remained at the club post-Martin. Smith’s first test comes against a Dundee United side managed by Jim Goodwin, who are fresh off a 1-0 Europa Conference League qualifying win over UNA Strassen. The match marks Rangers’ first outing after the international break, adding pressure to stabilize their domestic campaign.

The Rangers Review also revealed that Danny Rohl, previously considered for the role before Martin’s appointment, withdrew from contention to succeed Martin. Despite being interviewed again last week and expressing eagerness to start, the 36-year-old opted out, leaving Muscat as the frontrunner. Muscat’s potential return is generating buzz, with reports in China indicating that Shanghai Port has already begun searching for his successor, signaling his likely move to Ibrox. “The 52-year-old is eager to move to Glasgow as soon as possible but also wants to depart China as a champion,” the Rangers Review noted.

Rangers face a demanding schedule, including a Europa League clash with Brann on Thursday, followed by Premiership fixtures against Kilmarnock and Hibernian, and a pivotal League Cup showdown with Celtic at Hampden. Smith’s interim tenure will be crucial in maintaining momentum during this transitional period, as the club balances immediate challenges with long-term ambitions under a potential new manager.