Rangers are closing in on the appointment of Kevin Muscat as their new head coach, with only final details and personal terms left to be agreed.
The Australian, who played for the club during the 2002–03 season, is currently managing Shanghai Port, leaders of the Chinese Super League with four matches remaining.
A formal announcement is being held up due to Shanghai’s upcoming fixture against Qingdao Hainiu on Friday, as well as ongoing efforts to finalise Muscat’s backroom staff and complete the necessary documentation for him to begin work in Scotland.
In the meantime, youth coach Stevie Smith will oversee Rangers’ Scottish Premiership clash against Dundee United at Ibrox on Saturday.
It remains uncertain who will lead the team for next Thursday’s crucial Europa League away tie against Brann Bergen.
Muscat, 52, emerged as the frontrunner for the role after Steven Gerrard opted out of the running last weekend, stating the timing wasn’t right for a return to the Glasgow club.
Born in Crawley, Muscat launched his coaching career with Melbourne Victory, where he won the A-League title.
He later managed Belgian side Sint-Truiden before enjoying success in Japan, guiding Yokohama F. Marinos to a J-League title. He took charge of Shanghai Port in 2023, winning the league in his first season and is on track to retain the crown this year.
Rangers began the search for a new head coach after parting ways with Russell Martin, who was dismissed just 17 games into his tenure following a disappointing start to the campaign.