Rangers: Sean Dyche Distances Himself from Ibrox Links as Gerrard Keeps Door Open | OneFootball

Former Everton manager Sean Dyche has distanced himself from speculation linking him to the vacant Rangers job following the dismissal of Russell Martin. The 54-year-old, who worked closely with Ibrox sporting director Kevin Thelwell during their time together at Goodison Park, is understood to have no interest in taking on the role at this stage. His stance leaves the club’s leadership continuing to evaluate potential candidates as they seek stability after a turbulent start to the season.

With the search intensifying, speculation among supporters and pundits has turned toward familiar names such as Dyche, Steven Gerrard, and Derek McInnes. As chatter grows, fans have also been checking the odds on online bookmakers UK players can sign up to, where Gerrard is currently among the favourites to return to Ibrox. These platforms are favoured by fans because these bookmakers respond to each new rumour and development, shifting prices in real time.

Russell Martin’s sacking came after only 123 days in charge, following a 1-1 draw at Falkirk, which saw him escorted from the ground by police amid fan unrest. The decision followed weeks of poor performances, with Rangers managing only one win from their opening seven league fixtures, matching their worst-ever start to a domestic campaign. The board is now under pressure to make an appointment that will restore both results and faith within the stands at Ibrox.

While Dyche’s name had initially emerged due to his prior connection with Thelwell, sources close to the former Everton boss suggest he is focused on future Premier League opportunities. Having built a reputation for steady leadership and tactical discipline at Burnley, Dyche remains a respected figure in English football. His experience could appeal to Rangers’ hierarchy, though his reluctance means attention is likely to turn elsewhere in the coming days.

Steven Gerrard, meanwhile, has openly discussed his managerial ambitions during a recent appearance on Rio Ferdinand’s podcast. The former Rangers boss admitted he has “unfinished business” in management and would be open to the right challenge. Gerrard described his time at Ibrox as a “perfect match”, highlighting the synergy he enjoyed with his backroom staff and players during his title-winning season in 2021. His departure to Aston Villa later that year ended a successful period that brought the club its first Premiership crown in a decade.

Despite Gerrard’s willingness to return to the touchline, it remains unclear whether Rangers are ready to reappoint a former manager. The board has reportedly begun drawing up a list of candidates, with McInnes, currently leading Hearts through an unbeaten start to the season, also earning internal admirers. His strong start at Tynecastle, however, may make any move challenging unless Rangers are prepared to offer significant incentives.

For supporters, the debate over the next appointment is as much about identity as results. The club has cycled through several managers in recent years, each bringing different philosophies but limited long-term success. Fans are calling for a candidate who understands the unique expectations that come with managing Rangers, especially in a season where Celtic remain strong title contenders.

Behind the scenes, it is understood that the Ibrox board is divided over whether to appoint a proven domestic manager or to seek a more modern, continental approach. The emphasis appears to be on finding someone capable of working effectively within the club’s current sporting structure, which has evolved under Thelwell’s direction. Whichever route is chosen, the next appointment will be critical to stabilising the team’s league position and rebuilding morale.

As speculation grows, bookmakers and analysts continue to track developments closely. Dyche’s odds have drifted as reports of his disinterest surfaced, while Gerrard’s have shortened amid fan support and media discussion. McInnes remains a steady outsider, with foreign names beginning to appear in the mix. The coming days will likely see the market fluctuate as potential candidates emerge and negotiations progress.

For now, the Rangers dugout remains empty, and the uncertainty continues to weigh on the club. With the international break offering a brief window for decision-making, supporters will be hoping for clarity before domestic action resumes. Whoever takes the reins next will inherit both high expectations and the urgent task of reigniting the Rangers’ season.