Rangers are close to ending their extensive search for a new manager, Dave King has revealed.
The Ibrox owner explained at the club’s AGM on Thursday morning that “there should be something to report shortly” in the club’s bid to replace Pedro Caixinha, who was sacked nearly five weeks ago.
In a hugely significant update, King also revealed, as reported by the Sky Sports Scotland Twitter account, that a number of shortlisted candidates include those currently under contract.
RANGERS AGM LATEST
Dave King: “The search for Pedro’s replacement has been thorough… shortlisted candidates include those currently under contract… there should be something to report on this shortly”— Sky Sports Scotland (@ScotlandSky) November 30, 2017
King did not divulge any names, or further details, but it appears the club are finally close to finding a successor to Caixinha.
Betting was suspended on Alex McLeish landing the job on Monday but he subsequently poured cold water on the possibility of a return to the club he managed for five years from 2001 to 2006.
Derek McInnes had been favourite following the departure of Caixinha, but emphatically distanced himself from the role last Friday as he committed his future to Aberdeen.
OPINION
Could Rangers’ long and painful search for a new manager be about to come to an end? Finally? King suggests that is the case, although it is difficult to ascertain who the appointment will be. It appears fairly certain McLeish will not be heading for the dugout, and McInnes was quite emphatic last Friday he is staying put. However, did King drop a subtle hint about Aberdeen boss McInnes when he stated that the shortlisted candidates included “those currently under contract”? In this game of bluff and double bluff, it’s best not to rule out McInnes quite yet, as the fat lady prepares to clear her throat.