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The Anfield icon is a leading candidate for a shock return to Ibrox following the announced departure of manager the former Southampton coach.

The manager's disastrous time in charge concludes

The coach's troubled Ibrox tenure concluded with the boss departing the the away venue via a rear entrance and a vehicle on standby after a share of the points which left the Glasgow side a significant margin from the summit of the Scottish Premiership after just seven fixtures.

Furious fans had gathered around the Rangers team bus in Falkirk, showing their discontent.

Club hierarchy hesitant to dismiss Martin

The Ibrox hierarchy had been reluctant to let go of the coach, who was only appointed in last month, despite strong objections from the fanbase.

However, there was an acknowledgement that the coach's position had become impossible.

The club have won only one of their top-flight games to date, which has been coupled with disappointing showings on the continental stage.

Collectively, the coach won only five of 17 competitive matches, with a lackluster, muddled style of play that won over few admirers.

“While all transition periods take a while, outcomes have not met the team's standards,” announced a official communication on the weekend.

“Assistant head coach Matt Gill, and first-team staff member Williamson, will also be departing. Martin and his coaching team have worked exceptionally hard throughout their time at the club. We thank them for their dedication and hope for the best for the time ahead.”

The former manager claimed the league with the club

The Liverpool legend claimed the league with Rangers in 2020-21, their only championship since over a decade ago.

His performance in Scotland before then, coupled with struggles at Villa, creates uncertainty about his coaching abilities.

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

The rehiring of the former Reds star, who last managed in the Middle East, would be widely welcomed.

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

The departure will increase pressure on Thelwell

The coaching change will intensify scrutiny on Kevin Thelwell, the Ibrox director.

He had been very backing of the gaffer while announcing a net spend of £20m in the summer window.

Martin had agreed to a multi-year agreement.

Martin's past roles

The coach, who had previously been in charge MK Dons and Swansea, guided the south coast club to promotion to the Premier League in 2024 after being hired the earlier window.

He was let go last the end of the year after the Southampton managed only one win of their opening 16 fixtures.

He was chosen as Barry Ferguson’s next in line in June, after the interim head coach had taken over from the fired Philippe Clement in the earlier part of the year.