Rangers appoint long-awaited ‘Ibrox identity’ coach | OneFootball

Rangers appoint Smith as identity coach

Rangers appoint Smith as the ‘Rangers identity’ coach under Danny Rohl, ending the long search for this key role. The club has now confirmed that Steven Smith, once part of the U18 setup, will step into the senior structure permanently. The move brings the ongoing speculation around Neil McCann, Steven Davis and Lee Wallace to a close. This is a decisive step from Rohl and the Ibrox hierarchy to build from within.

Ending the uncertainty

For months, Rangers fans had debated who would shape the club’s playing identity. The board had been linked with several ex-players, but none had been confirmed. Now Smith takes the position, cementing the internal approach that Rohl favours. This decision reflects confidence in the academy’s work and a desire to maintain continuity.

Rohl has spoken of the importance of a clear identity, one that connects every level of Rangers from youth to senior football. Smith, who already knows the system and many of the players, fits that demand perfectly. He understands the club’s culture, its traditions and the need to impose them on the pitch every week. That connection is vital in a dressing room that has seen so many changes.

In-house strength

Rangers’ choice of Smith also signals a return to the homegrown philosophy that has defined some of the club’s best periods. By promoting from within, Rohl shows faith in people who already know what Rangers stand for. Smith’s promotion follows months of quiet work behind the scenes, where his link between academy and senior football earned strong praise.

This is not a token gesture. Smith will have real influence in setting how Rangers play, train and think. His work with the younger age groups was highly rated, and now he will aim to extend that ethos to the senior squad. Fans have long wanted a sense of unity between Ibrox and the academy. This appointment delivers exactly that.

A message of stability

In a time of managerial turnover and constant rebuilding, this move sends a message of calm and belief. Rohl wants structure, not chaos, and Smith provides that link between past and present. By installing Smith, Rangers avoid another period of uncertainty. The club can now focus fully on results, performances and progress in every competition.

Smith’s promotion marks a shift in direction. Rangers now look to build a stronger identity through internal talent rather than external hires. It is bold, it is confident and it shows trust in the people who already wear the badge with pride.