Steven Gerrard set for Rangers return as Ibrox move 'all but agreed' after Andrew Cavenagh summit

Steven Gerrard is reportedly close to a second spell as Rangers boss, likely boosting short-term confidence and shortening Rangers’ odds in immediate match markets. Punters may favour backing Rangers in upcoming fixtures or bet on Gerrard to be appointed in manager markets, with odds for a quick bounce in form improving.

Rangers poised to reappoint Steven Gerrard as manager

Rangers are reportedly set to confirm Steven Gerrard as manager for a second spell after accelerating their search following Russell Martin’s dismissal last Sunday. Club leaders met Gerrard in London this week as chairman Andrew Cavenagh and Paraag Marathe led efforts, with technical director Gretar Steinsson also involved. Sources suggest a deal could be signed as early as today.

Gerrard’s previous Ibrox success

Gerrard first took charge at Rangers in the summer of 2018 and masterminded the club’s first Scottish Premiership title in a decade, guiding them through an unbeaten 2020/21 campaign. He left for Aston Villa the following November, a tenure that lasted 11 months, before moving to Al-Ettifaq in July 2023 where his spell ended in January this year.

Manager’s mindset and readiness

Gerrard has publicly stated he wants the right project and the right staff around him before returning to management. He said he’s not in a rush, that family developments affected his timing, and that when the right match appears and he has his team in place, he will take the challenge on because management is “in me.”

What Gerrard’s return means for Rangers

A Gerrard comeback would bring immediate feel-good factor and a clear identity tied to his previous style: organised defence, structured transition play, and a demand for intensity. Expect increased scrutiny on recruitment and backroom hires as he rebuilds a staff suited to his methods. Short-term improvement is probable while longer-term success will depend on transfer backing and squad stability.

Betting markets and angles to consider

- Manager appointment markets: Gerrard would become a strong favourite for the Ibrox vacancy immediately. - Match markets: Expect shortened odds for Rangers to win upcoming home fixtures; consider backing them in single-match bets where Gerrard’s tactical uplift could have quick impact. - Futures and season markets: Bettors may move to shorter lines for Rangers to climb the table, but assess squad depth and fixture list before staking on title markets.

Conclusion

A return for Gerrard would be headline-making and likely lift Rangers on and off the pitch in the short term. For punters, the most immediate opportunities are manager and single-match markets, while longer-term bets should factor in recruitment and squad readiness.

The Liverpool legend is set for a second spell at Ibrox nearly fours years on from his departure

Daily Record