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Steven Gerrard is a leading candidate for a dramatic comeback to Ibrox following the confirmed sacking of manager the former Southampton coach.

His disastrous Ibrox tenure concludes

Martin's ill-fated Ibrox tenure finished with the gaffer exiting the the away venue via a side door and a pre-arranged transport after a 1-1 draw which left the Glasgow side eleven points adrift from the peak of the premier division after just seven fixtures.

Incensed supporters had encircled the squad transport in the away ground, making their feelings clear.

Rangers board reluctant to let go of the manager

The club directors had been hesitant to let go of the coach, who was only hired in June, despite strong objections from supporters.

However, there was an realization that the 39-year-old’s role had become impossible.

The team have managed only one win of their Premiership matches to date, which has been coupled with poor performances in Europe.

In total, the coach won only five of 17 fixtures, with a uninspiring, unclear brand of football that gained little support.

“While all transition periods require some time, performances have not met the team's standards,” said a Rangers statement on Sunday evening.

“Number two Matt Gill, and first-team staff member Williamson, will also be moving on. Martin and his staff have worked exceptionally hard throughout their time at the club. We are grateful for their efforts and hope for the best for the time ahead.”

The former manager secured the championship with Rangers

The Liverpool legend won the title with the Glasgow club in 2020-21, their lone triumph since 2011.

His achievements in the Scottish league before then, coupled with struggles at Aston Villa, raises questions about his coaching abilities.

Yet he is highly regarded by the very set of fans Rangers are keen to get back on side.

The reappointment of the Liverpool icon, who most recently coached in the Middle East, would be widely welcomed.

The coach will also be mindful of what scarce chances he has to be a manager in top-tier competitions.

The departure will intensify scrutiny on Kevin Thelwell

The manager's departure will heighten focus on Kevin Thelwell, the Rangers sporting director.

He had been hugely supportive of the gaffer while publicly revealing a transfer outlay of a significant sum in the transfer window.

The former boss had put pen to paper on a multi-year agreement.

Martin's past roles

The coach, who had previously coached MK Dons and the Swans, managed Southampton to promotion to the top flight in the previous season after being brought in the earlier window.

He was sacked last December after the the club managed only one win of their first 16 games.

He was named the former captain's next in line in the summer, after the temporary manager had taken over from the sacked the former manager in the earlier part of the year.