Steven Gerrard 'safer choice' for Rangers than other 'big names' such as ex-England team-mate Frank Lampard

A new permanent boss is required at Ibrox, with ex-club captain Barry Ferguson currently filling the dugout on an interim basis. He is considered to be a contender to take the reins full-time, given his strong ties to the Scottish giants.

Gerrard has also seen a return to Glasgow speculated on, having previously guided the Gers to Premiership title glory in 2020-21. The Liverpool legend is currently out of work after flopping in coaching spells at Aston Villa and Saudi Pro League side Al-Ettifaq.

Alan Hutton has told Betway of Rangers’ search for a new manager: "Gerrard would possibly be the safer choice because he’s been there before, he knows what the club’s all about, he understands it, he’s won the league there as a manager. So, he knows what it takes week in, week out to hit those levels.

"I feel, at the time, when he was manager, the squad was better, it was stronger than what it is in this moment in time. So, with the new owners coming in, they’re going to have to spend money to get the quality back up.

"When you look at Barry Ferguson right now, he’s turned things around quickly. He’s put that pride back in the players, that winning mentality that you need to have as a Rangers player. I think for him to be in the conversation, he’ll have to have a really strong end to the season."

Former Gers defender Hutton added, with several other names in the frame: "It’s probably the one time I’ve found it hard to pin somebody down. I know there’s been talk of Frank Lampard, Steven Gerrard going back, these types of big names who understand what it’s like to play at a club when there’s a lot of pressure.

"But with the takeover happening, it’s difficult to put your finger on somebody because you have no clue what they’re going to want from a manager when they come in. Are they going to want someone who is from overseas? Have they already got their eye on somebody? Are they going to want someone Scottish? It's very difficult to tell at this moment.

"What I would say is, Barry Ferguson is there at this moment in time, and he’s done well since he’s taken over the job, so he’s in charge of that position at this moment. And all he can do is his very best and see what happens come the end of it."

While Gerrard is out of work at present, Lampard is rebuilding his reputation at Championship side Coventry - with the Chelsea icon helping to push the Sky Blues into contention for a play-off spot and potential promotion into the Premier League.