\n<\/p>\n
However, it is clear that Gerrard – who has backing from many supporters – is now emerging as one of the leading contenders for the position.<\/p>\n
Gerrard was in charge of Rangers between 2018 and 2021, leading the club to their first domestic title in 10 years.<\/p>\n
Rangers have not been champions since Gerrard decided to leave for Aston Villa in November 2021.<\/p>\n
After a 14th-placed finish in his first season in charge of the Premier League club, he was dismissed 12 games into the following campaign.<\/p>\n
Gerrard became manager of Saudi Pro League club Al-Ettifaq in July 2023 but left by mutual consent in January and was subsequently linked with the Rangers job before Martin was appointed in June.<\/p>\n
In an interview with former England team-mate Rio Ferdinand, Gerrard this week spoke of his desire to return to management but said he wanted “to be at a team that’s going to compete to win, because I think that suits me better”.<\/p>\n
Martin won just five of his 17 matches, leaving Rangers eighth in the table – 11 points adrift of leaders Hearts.<\/p>\n
Gerrard told the Rio Ferdinand Presents Podcast there had been “five or six really interesting phone calls” since he left Saudi Arabia but said the timing had not been right.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n