Three reasons Steven Gerrard rejected Rangers as Liverpool legend 'surprises' Ibrox chiefs
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Daily Mirror IconSportFootballSteven GerrardLiverpool icon Steven Gerrard held talks over a sensational return to Ibrox but decided not to replace Russell MartinSteven Gerrard had three crucial factors behind snubbing Rangers during their hunt for a new manager, according to repors. The championship-winning Ibrox chief Gerrard was the man American owners Andrew Cavenagh and 49ers Enterprises were eager to bring back to replace Russell Martin following his sacking earlier this month.The Liverpool legend was the supporters' top choice for a comeback but, following two days of discussions in London, Gerrard withdrew from contention.
Record Sport revealed on Saturday evening that Gerrard ultimately concluded the timing wasn't suitable - forming part of the decision from the former Aston Villa and Al-Ettifaq manager.READ MORE: 15 Premier League stars at risk of missing out on World Cup including Isak and SeskoREAD MORE: Liverpool and Man Utd on alert as Antoine Semenyo transfer clause emergesNow radio station talkSPORT reports he harboured "some reservations" about "working under the current Rangers sporting structure" following face-to-face discussions - overseen by sporting director Kevin Thelwell.The decision isn't described as "personal" against Thelwell - who joined from Everton during the summer - but stems from Gerrard wanting "more autonomy" similar to his initial spell in the Ibrox hotseat.It also highlighted that Gerrard was wary about the challenge of transforming Rangers mid-campaign.They are stuck in eighth position in the Scottish Premiership and the incoming manager will be under enormous pressure to rescue a woeful season. Gerrard reportedly "wants to bide his time" and "would be more inclined to take a job over a summer when he's got a full season ahead of him."His decision apparently "caught some within Rangers' senior hierarchy by surprise", sending them back to "square one" in their quest to find a replacement for Martin before the league campaign resumes post-international break."Rangers Football Club confirms that it has parted company with Head Coach, Russell Martin," a statement released on October 5 said."While all transition periods require some time, results have not met the club's expectations.
"We thank them for their efforts and wish them well for the future."Further updates from the club will follow in due course."Join our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.Sky Sports discounted Premier League and EFL packageThis article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it.