Scottish Premiership

RANGERS have appointed former Southampton boss Russell Martin as their new manager.The 39-year-old has ended months of speculation about the vacancy by accepting the job at Ibrox.New Rangers boss Russell MartinCredit: GettyFormer Real Madrid assistant Davide Ancelotti was a contenderCredit: GettySteven Gerrard was favourite at one point but dropped out of the runningCredit: PASunSport were first to tell you back on February 22 – the day Philippe Clement was sacked – that Martin was a serious contender. Since then a number of names were linked with the position, including former Real Madrid assistant Davide Ancelotti and ex-Rangers boss Steven Gerrard.But it is ex-Light Blues defender Martin who has made the most convincing pitch to the new American owners at Ibrox to land the job.Inititially joining Martin in Glasgow will be Assistant Head Coach Matt Gill and Performance Coach Rhys Owen.Read more football He said: “It is a privilege to be named Head Coach of Rangers Football Club at the beginning of this exciting new chapter.”I know what this club demands. From my time here, I had a taste of how special this club is, the expectation, the passion and the history. Now, as I return, I’m determined to bring success back, for the supporters, the players, and everyone inside this club.”There’s a lot to be done, but the goal is clear: win matches, win trophies, and give Rangers fans a team that they can be proud of. “We want to play with bravery, to take the ball, to be aggressive, and to stand up in the big moments.Most read in Football”Preparations for pre-season are already underway. I look forward to meeting the players and building a squad that our fans can believe in.”Martin’s name never seemed to go away even despite links with Leicester City.Robert Grieve & Bill Leckie have the very latest on the Rangers manager situation as Steven Gerrard & Russell Martin emerge as front-runnersWe told you at the start of last week that Martin remained a serious contender and was set for talks to make a fresh pitch for the position.Ancelotti, son of legendary father Carlo, made it clear that Rangers was his preferred choice but a decision had to be made quickly.That was before it was announced that the new US consortium, chairman Andrew Cavenagh and 49ers Enterprises, would take control of the club last Friday.New sporting director Kevin Thelwell said only on Monday how Rangers are closing in on a new manager.And Martin who had a loan spell at Ibrox seven years ago has emerged from the pack of candidates.Rangers CEO Patrick Stewart said: “Our criteria for our next coach were clear: we wanted a coach who will excel in terms of how we want to play, improve our culture, develop our squad, and ultimately win matches. Russell was the standout candidate.“This appointment is about building a winning team and a strong culture. He is no stranger to our club, we expect success and Russell knows that. We are excited for his leadership.”Rangers Sporting Director Kevin Thelwell added: “Through the many conversations Patrick and I have had with Russell in recent weeks, he has emerged as the outstanding candidate.“Russell comes to Rangers with hard-earned experience. His time in the Premier League has sharpened his approach, both tactically and personally. He’s better for it, and we believe that will translate into the kind of leadership and performance our supporters expect.He guided Southampton into the Premier League with a play-off win over Leeds United at Wembley a year ago.But the Saints dropped straight back down after failing to recover from a disastrous start with one win in 16 games, which cost Martin his job.Read More on The SunMore to follow…Keep up to date with ALL the latest news and transfers at the Scottish Sun football page More

RUSSELL MARTIN is ‘closing in’ on being named the new Rangers manager, it’s being claimed. SunSport was first to tell you back on February 28 – the day Philippe Clement was axed – that Martin was a serious contender to replace him.Russell Martin during his time at SouthamptonCredit: ReutersRussell Martin, RangersCredit: Willie Vass – The Sun GlasgowSince then the likes of Steven Gerrard and Davide Ancelotti have both been heavily linked with the role.But we told you at the start of the week how Martin remained a major contender for the role, and was set to meet with Rangers chiefs to make a fresh pitch to become Ibrox boss.But now the 39-year-old, a former Gers player, has emerged as the new frontrunner for the Gers hotseat, after interest from Leicester City came to nothing.Transfer guru Fabrizio Romano reports this lunchtime that the former Southampton, Norwich and MK Dons boss has ‘accepted the project’ and the Gers are closing in on his signature.He wrote: “Rangers are closing in on the appointment of Russell Martin as new head coach. “Former Southampton manager has already accepted the project, ready for new chapter.”New sporting director Kevin Thelwell said only yesterday how Rangers are closing in on a new manager.Thelwell, now officially started as the club’s new sporting director yesterday, insists an appointment is close.Most read in FootballHe said: “Top of the priority list will be the appointment of a new head coach for our men’s team.”That search has been progressing well and the club and I look forward to bringing that to a conclusion in the coming days.”Roger Hannah and Robert Grieve debate if Davide Ancelotti or Russell Martin should be the next Rangers manager in the Coffee ClubMeanwhile, Ibrox CEO Patrick Stewart says Gers aim to be a force for good in Scottish football.Stewart is standing for election onto the SPFL board on June 24.His appointment is likely to go through, with a number of other Ibrox figures taking up key positions with the league and SFA.Under the previous regime, Gers were often critical of the running of the game. Now Stewart insists the club must continue to shine a spotlight on big issues – and vowed to engage in ‘constructive’ boardroom talks.He said: “Rangers is committed to being a force for good in Scottish football.”That means not only contributing ideas and energy to help the game grow, but also playing our part in asking the right questions and helping raise standards.Read More on The Sun”These appointments and nomination demonstrate the club’s determination to play a full and constructive part in Scottish football’s decision-making and to ensure Rangers’ voice is heard on matters of importance.”Keep up to date with ALL the latest news and transfers at the Scottish Sun football page More

THE Rangers takeover has been officially signed and sealed – with consortium tycoon Andrew Cavenagh vowing to take the club to the TOP.The buy-out deal – backed by San Francisco 49ers Enterprises – has now been confirmed following months of talks.Andrew Cavanagh and former Leeds United Technical Director Gretar SteinssonCredit: Kenny RamsayIbrox StadiumCredit: GettyParaag Marathe watching Rangers at Old Trafford in JanuaryCredit: Willie VassAn initial £20million investment has been promised for summer signings following a proposed share issue which will be outlined at an EGM on June 23.Frontman Cavenagh takes control as chairman with Paraag Marathe named vice-chairman – after they finally acquired 51 percent of the club late on Wednesday night and secured SFA approval.Cavenagh said: “We are deeply grateful for the trust placed in us by the Rangers board, shareholders, staff, and supporters. “This club’s history and traditions speak for themselves, but history doesn’t win matches. Read more football “We know that the true way to honour the club’s heritage will be to drive performance. “Our focus is simple: elevate performance, deliver results, and bring Rangers back to where it belongs – at the top.”Marathe’s involvement had to be ratified by the SFA given his position as chairman of Leeds United.And Hampden chiefs have confirmed there are no dual ownership issues.Most read in FootballMarathe added: “At 49ers Enterprises, we have built a track record of sporting and business success.Robert Grieve & Bill Leckie have the very latest on the Rangers manager situation as Steven Gerrard & Russell Martin emerge as front-runners“But our driving motivation is our deep connection to the clubs and communities we serve. “We are excited to join Andrew and our other consortium of investors in a new era for this iconic club, and we are determined to build something that supporters can be proud of for years to come.”Dave King and John Bennett now have no shares in Rangers after agreeing to sell up. And the club has now formed a new-look board.That will include new names Mark Taber, Andrew Clayton and Gene Schneur.Patrick Stewart, Fraser Thornton, John Halsted, and George Taylor all remain – but Graeme Park, Julian Wolhardt, and Alastair Johnston step down.The roles will all be ratified at an EGM on June 23.That will include a resolution to be passed for a share issue and also a motion to move Rangers from being an unlisted PLC to a private company.Thornton said: “This new ownership phase represents a significant step forward for Rangers FC. “The incoming shareholders bring not only funding but also deep expertise in strategic planning, infrastructure development, and sporting excellence.“On behalf of Rangers, I also want to put on record our appreciation to the outgoing board members who have selflessly served the club. “I also want to acknowledge our major shareholders whose backing has brought the club to this point, the vast majority of whom have chosen to reinvest in the club and continue with us on the next stage of the journey.”New-look Rangers boardChairman: Andrew CavenaghVice-chair: Paraag MaratheNew board: Mark Taber, Andrew Clayton, Gene Schneur, Patrick Stewart, Fraser Thornton, John Halsted and George TaylorStepping down: Graeme Park, Julian Wolhardt and Alastair JohnstonPatrick Stewart said: “From my earliest conversations with Paraag and Andrew, I have been excited and confident in the shared vision and what it could mean for the future of Rangers.“Our focus now is on the hard work ahead, preparing thoroughly for the new season, appointing the right men’s head coach, and ensuring we have the structures in place to support success on the pitch.”The news will be celebrated by Rangers supporters who have been desperately crying out for change.A statement released by the club said: “Rangers Football Club is pleased to announce that a consortium of investors, led by Andrew Cavenagh and 49ers Enterprises, has purchased a majority stake in the club, with approval from the Scottish FA. “The consortium will chart a new strategic vision for the club’s future prioritising on-pitch performance and long-term financial sustainability.“The new leadership has committed to invest £20 million into the club at this time, which will be subject to shareholder approval at the General Meeting on 23 June 2025.“Cavenagh, a business leader and healthcare executive, will serve as board chairman. “He will work closely with Paraag Marathe, who joins the board as vice chairman and is the president of 49ers Enterprises, a sports investment entity also led by San Francisco 49ers CEO Jed York.Read More on The Sun“Cavenagh and Marathe have spent decades leading highly successful businesses and world-class sports brands and, as part of the board, will oversee all aspects of the club in this next chapter.”Keep up to date with ALL the latest news and transfers at the Scottish Sun football page More

RANGERS have added another name to their managerial shortlist as Ibrox chiefs close in on the appointment of their new boss.SunSport has already told you how Davide Ancelotti, Russell Martin, Steven Gerrard and Brian Priske were in the frame to replace Philippe Clement. There has been no further update regarding Davide AncelottiCredit: PASteven Gerrard is no longer in the runningCredit: GettyA new manager has entered the frameCredit: GettyLiverpool legend Gerrard has seemingly dropped out of the race after rejecting an approach to make a sensational return to his former club. Ancelotti and Martin are understood to be the leading contenders as things stand. However, SunSport understands another manager has now joined the race, with former Ajax boss Francesco Farioli the latest gaffer to hold discussions with the Light Blues board.The 36-year-old is currently a free agent after he resigned from the Eredivisie giants following their dramatic title collapse which saw PSV Eindhoven clinch the title on the final day. Ajax threw away a nine point lead in the final few games which allowed Malik Tillman and Co to make it two-in-a-row following a last day shootout against Sparta Rotterdam. Emotional Farioli quit following the major disappointment and technical director Alex Kroes branded his departure “incredibly disappointing”. It’s understood the Italian was one of the managers considered by Light Blues chiefs before they appointed Michael Beale. The Ibrox club have been long-time admirers of the young manager and it’s said they’ve made a fresh approach. Most read in FootballThe former Nice and Alanyaspor gaffer has also been linked with Atalanta and Roma. Farioli recently revealed what he expects from his next move after a difference of opinion with the Ajax board. Ajax Manager Francesco Farioli in tears after Dutch giants lose Eredivisie title on final day of the season“There’s a lot of speculation, a lot of rumours,” he said.“But I do want to get back into coaching. Just like it was with Ajax, I don’t care about the brand or the size of the club.”What matters to me is how things are done, and last summer Ajax was exactly what I was looking for.“It was the right step for my career, and now we’ll see what comes next. We’ll see if and when that opportunity arrives.“I’m a very demanding person. Before I join a club, I lay all my strengths and weaknesses on the table. ‘Demanding’ is probably the best word to describe me.”I want to find a club that’s willing to fight alongside me.”Keep up to date with ALL the latest news and transfers at the Scottish Sun football page More

STEVEN GERRARD is reportedly set to pull out of the race to become the next Rangers boss.The Liverpool legend was one of the front-runners to take over the reins at Ibrox alongside former Real Madrid assistant Davide Ancelotti and ex-Southampton boss Russell Martin.Steven Gerrard and wife AlexCredit: Getty – ContributorGerrard was unveiled as Rangers manager in May 2018Credit: GettyHe clinched the Premiership title with Rangers in 2021Credit: Getty Images – GettyBut, just hours after shareholder Dave King gave him his backing when he said he was the “obvious choice”, it looks like he’s dropping out of contention. King felt Gerrard had “unfinished business” at Ibrox after leading the club to the Premiership title in 2021 before joining Aston Villa months later. He told SunSport on Wednesday: ““From Steven’s point of view and where he is at the moment, I think he’d love nothing more than to come back and take on the challenge of restoring the club.“It’s not just about one title. The project we hope we’re starting is to make Rangers the dominant No 1 team in Scotland.”But according to the Daily Record, sources say Gerrard and his family have opted to stay in the Middle East for at least another year in what is being described as a “lifestyle” choice.The report claims it’s not to do with a potential huge tax bill facing Gerrard if he returns to work in the UK after being in Saudi Arabia as Al-Ettifaq boss as he is now exempt. That would seemingly open the door to remaining contenders former Madrid assistant Davide Ancelotti, ex-Feyenoord boss Brian Priske and former Southampton boss Russell Martin.It’s believed Rangers is Ancelotti’s number one choice, with news expected on that front in the next couple of days, according to the BBC.Most read in FootballThe 35-year-old has been assistant to his legendary father Carlo at Madrid, Bayern Munich, Napoli and Everton but now looks set to go out on his own. But if things are dragged out longer, the Gers could miss their window to land the Italian, as he has other options on the table – and one of those is a Serie A side, according to reports in Italy.What does Rangers takeover mean for the club – finance expert speaks outRussell Martin is also expected to meet with club representatives this week to make a fresh pitch to become the next Rangers boss. American health tycoon Andrew Cavenagh, who is the driving force behind the takeover, is also expected to be in Europe this week to take a leading role in the final stages of the hiring process. Keep up to date with ALL the latest news and transfers at the Scottish Sun football page More

LIVERPOOL icon Steven Gerrard could be poised to make a return to Rangers, according to reports.Rangers interim manager Barry Ferguson left the club following Saturday’s match against Hibernian.Steven Gerrard could make a return to RangersCredit: GettyGerrard won the Scottish Premiership title with Rangers in 2021Credit: Getty Images – GettyThe 47-year-old took over on a temporary basis following the dismissal of Philippe Clement in February.Rangers are now on the hunt for a permanent successor.And the Daily Mail has claimed that Gerrard is on a shortlist.The Liverpool legend is joined on the list by former Southampton manager Russell Martin and Davide Ancelotti.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLBut he is understood to be the preferred candidate.The recruitment process is being led by new sporting director Kevin Thelwell and chief executive Patrick Stewart.Gretar Steinsson of 49ers Enterprises – the consortium in talks to take over Rangers – also has a level of input.Gerrard previously spent three years at Rangers before leaving in 2021 to become Aston Villa manager.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSDuring his time at the club he won the Scottish Premiership title and finished the 2020-21 league season unbeaten.However, he failed to impress while at Villa Park.Steven Gerrard spotted at major sporting event as he gives personal update after Al-Ettifaq exitGerrard was sacked by Aston Villa less than a year after joining the club.He was then appointed as the manager of Saudi Pro League side Al-Ettifaq but left by mutual consent earlier this year with the club just above the relegation zone.The former England midfielder waived £10million in order to avoid getting a relegation on his managerial record.Al-Ettifaq’s head of football Hatim Al-Mashaal said: “Gerrard waived half of his contract with Al-Ettifaq, and the other part has been scheduled.”He waived £10million because if the club had been relegated with him, it would have caused a crisis in his coaching career.”So the agreement to leave was a mutual one between the club and the coach.” More

DUNDEE have sacked manager Tony Docherty. SunSport understands the Dens Park gaffer was told this morning the club plan to move in a new direction. Tony Docherty has been axed by DundeeCredit: Kenny RamsayA Lyall Cameron double saw Dundee secure their top flight place on the final dayCredit: Kenny RamsayEx-Celtic star Shaun Maloney is in the frame for the Dens Park vacancyCredit: GettyThe former Aberdeen, Kilmarnock and St Johnstone number two took the job in the summer of 2023 and rebuilt the squad quickly following promotion from the Championship. Docherty led Dundee to the top six last season, their first top-half finish in nine years, and was nominated for the Manager of the Year awards. The 54-year-old couldn’t replicate the feat this season, with several injuries to key players crippling his defence. As a result, they had the worst defensive record in the Premiership and only stayed out of relegation trouble on the final day by beating St Johnstone 2-0. Dens owner Tim Keyes and managing director John Nelms have decided to make a change, with former Hibs boss Shaun Maloney in the frame. The ex-Celtic winger is currently out of work after leaving crisis-hit Wigan in March.He previously held talks about becoming Dee boss in 2022 but no agreement was reached.Docherty also lost star man Luke McCowan to Celtic, who splashed out £1 million to sign him late in last summer’s window.Most read in FootballHis backroom team have also left the club.Dundee have confirmed Stuart Taylor, Alan Combe and Graeme Henderson have all departed with immediate effect.Moment Dundee fans invade pitch after securing safety against St Johnstone at McDiarmid ParkIn a statement, the Dens Park club stated that this season had “not met the standards expected by the club.”They’re also planning to restructure the club’s football department while they begin their search for the next manager.Dundee said: “Dundee Football Club can today confirm that manager Tony Docherty, Stuart Taylor, Alan Combe and Graeme Henderson have been relieved of their duties at the football club with immediate effect.”Tony was appointed manager of Dundee FC in May 2023 after the club was promoted to the Scottish Premiership and in his first season in charge guided the club to a top six finish in the league.”Stuart was brought in as assistant manager to Tony in June 2023.Alan has been with the club since 2021 as goalkeeping coach and Graeme joined last summer as head of performance.”Sunday’s result confirmed the club’s place in the Scottish Premiership for next season. However, this season the results of the team have not met the standards expected by the club.”With the club finishing the season in tenth position, one place above the relegation play-off position, the club have taken the decision to relieve Tony of his duties.Shaun Maloney’s careerJoined Celtic as a trainee in 1999 and made first team debut in 2001Scored 37 goals in 138 appearances during first spell with HoopsSpent 18 months with Aston Villa between 2007 and 2008 before returning to CelticWon five SPL titles and three League Cups across his two spells with the HoopsReturned to England with Wigan in 2011 before a brief stint in the USA with Chicago Fire in 2015Career ended with at two-year spell with Hull CityWon 47 Scotland caps and scored seven goalsMoved into coaching role with Celtic in 2017 before taking first team coach gig with Belgium in 2018Appointed Hibs manager in December 2021 and was in charge until April 2022Previously entered talks about becoming Dundee manager in 2022 but no deal was agreedTook charge at former club Wigan in January 2023 and spent just over two years in the role”The club would like to place on record its sincere thanks to Tony, Stuart, Alan and Graeme for all of the work they have put into the club during their time at Dundee FC. We wish them all the best for the future.”The club intends at this juncture to restructure the football department and the process to appoint a new management team begins immediately.Read More on The Sun”The club shall be making no further comment at this time.”Keep up to date with ALL the latest news and transfers at the Scottish Sun football page More