Rangers legend confirms desire to become next manager following Martin dismissal

Cameron Smith

• 7 Oct 2025 06:01 CDT
• 3 min read

News

Rangers legend Jermain Defoe has confirmed that he would like to return to the club in a coaching capacity.

The ex-England international, who scored 32 goals in 74 games across a three-year spell at Ibrox, was a coach at Rangers during his final season at the club and he helped manage the Gers on an interim basis following the departure of Steven Gerrard in 2021.

Defoe subsequently spent two years coaching in Tottenham Hotspur’s academy before leaving his role in July 2024 in search of a managerial career.

He reportedly held discussions with Sunderland before the appointment of Regis Le Bris and the 43-year-old has now confirmed his desire to return to Rangers following the sacking of Russell Martin.

He told Sky Sports News: “It’s well documented the time I had there [Rangers], winning arguably the most important league in the club’s history. Myself, Steven [Gerrard] and all the boys that did it, it was amazing to be a part of it.

“It’s more than just a football club and I think I understood what it was about. I understood when you put on a Rangers shirt you have to win [and] the demands, the standards.

“I’ve said it from day one as soon as I retired. I’ve done all my coaching badges and if I’ve got an opportunity to come back to this football club to help this group of players, for me it’s a no-brainer.”

Who will be the next Rangers manager?

Although Defoe is evidently eager to return to Ibrox, Steven Gerrard and Sean Dyche are the two clear favourites for the job, while Danny Rohl is reportedly also under consideration.

The club are hoping to appoint a new manager before the end of the October international break after sacking Martin following a 1-1 draw against Falkirk on Sunday.

The ex-Southampton boss only won five of his 17 games in charge of the club and he was fired with Rangers languishing down in eighth place in the Scottish Premiership table.

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