Davide Ancelotti suffers Rangers next manager status tumble as bookies scamper to cover THAT bubbling boss rumour
The 49ers Enterprises got the big Ibrox takeover over the line on Friday and now all focus is on a new manager
Russell Martin has surged into odds-on to land the Rangers job.
Leading bookmaker Betfair has installed the former Southampton boss as the new leading candidate ahead of Davide Ancelotti as 49ers Enterprises make installing a permanent manager a matter of urgency after their big Ibrox takeover.
That was the first of two major hurdles to be negotiated off the park with the next Philippe Clement's permanent successor after a decision was made following the final game of the season against Hibs that interim boss Barry Ferguson would not get the role.
Now former Real Madrid No2 Davide Ancelotti - son of legendary manager Carlo - has been the leading name for weeks but now Martin has flipped the manager script and that has seen bookies scamper to cover themselves as things bubble away.
In an open letter to fans after purchasing a majority stake in the club new chairman and vice chairman Andrew Cavenagh and Paraag Marathe stated: "Simply put – our goal is to win trophies in Scotland and be able to compete at a high level in Europe, while laying a foundation of financial sustainability for the future.
"As our first step, we are investing fresh capital into Rangers, which will be strategically deployed on and off the pitch.
"While we recognise the importance of resources, we believe that thoughtful, disciplined investment, guided by a clear strategy, is the path to enduring success.
"Every decision, whether sporting or business, will be made with the club's long-term success and sustainability in mind.
"We aim to leverage the full strength of 49ers Enterprises' sporting expertise and operational experience, and are confident in Patrick Stewart and Kevin Thelwell to lead this next phase.
"Our first priority together is clear: hiring a new men's head coach. That process is already well underway, and we look forward to sharing more updates soon. We will also look to invest in talent for our teams."
Rangers fans are desperate for a new man to be installed at the helm with pre-season just weeks away with a June 23 start.
Champions League qualifiers swiftly follow a month later and with a host of Academy and top team players shown the door including Leon Balogun, Ianis Hagi and Tom Lawrence, the new manager will need to hit the ground running in the transfer market.
The process is drawing towards a conclusion with the hunt 'well underway' and ex-defender Martin is now leading the pack in the betting market as the big decision looms large.
Betfair: Next Permanent Rangers Manager
Russell Martin 8/11
Davide Ancelotti 1/1
Francesco Farioli 10/1
Marco Rose 16/1
Steven Gerrard 20/1
Danny Rohl 22/1
Frank Lampard 25/1
Rob Edwards, Gary O'Neil, Kevin Muscat 33/1
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