Two Rangers chiefs axed from Gerrard talks | OneFootball

One thing that has significantly stood out for Ibrox Noise over these negotiations with Steven Gerrard, and indeed other candidates for this job, is one standout, borderline stunning revelation regarding the process. And that revelation is very simple. Neither Patrick Stewart nor Kevin Thelwell are said to be anywhere near these negotiations.

These talks are being carried out with the owners. They are being handled directly by the heads of the club, particularly Cavenagh and Marathe. This is a very pointed and deliberate move. Put simply, they have called out that the previous decision was wrong. It was incorrect.

Consequently, who made those decisions? Particularly Patrick Stewart. That appointment was mainly his. Russell Martin was his project, alongside Thelwell. And they got it magnificently wrong, horrendously wrong. The owners have acknowledged that and taken responsibility because it is, ultimately, their sword to fall on. Those two chose that manager, but the owners endorsed and accepted it, so the blame falls collectively.

However, it is extremely telling that for this management hunt, it is the owners and a few senior figures beside them who are now leading the way in the interview process and negotiations. It is not Stewart, and it is not Thelwell. That is a damning indictment of both men and may well suggest that their time at the club is nearing its end.

Either that, or their roles have been significantly reduced, meaning they no longer have executive authority over major decisions or appointments. Stewart, as CEO, may still handle the day-to-day running of the club, but he appears to have lost the right to make the big calls—certainly not without approval.

It is a striking contrast from the last managerial search. Maybe this time, Rangers will get the right man in Steven Gerrard negotiations.