STEVEN GERRARD will NOT return to Rangers for a second stint in the dugout.
The manager who brought Rangers fans their only league title in more than a decade has snubbed the chance to return as Russell Martin‘s replacement.
And many supporters have been left heartbroken by the shock development, with some suggesting he should NEVER be interviewed for the job again.
Gerrard, 45, quickly emerged as the leading contender to take over the hot-seat after agreeing to hold talks with Ibrox chiefs in London this week.
The Light Blues fanbase were ready to forgive him for his shock exit to Aston Villa after he controversially quit the club in favour of a move to the Premier League back in 2021.
Despite his hasty exit four years ago, Gerrard seemingly emerged as the popular choice to take over from Martin after he was axed last Sunday.
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But after holding talks with the Ibrox hierarchy, Gerrard has decided the timing isn’t right for him to leave Bahrain and return to Scotland.
The news shocked supporters as they reacted on social media, with one admitting that the development “breaks their heart”.
Writing on X, a stunned fan said: “Gerrard not coming back, raging. What happened?
Another said: “I can’t believe Steven Gerrard isn’t coming back to Rangers — it honestly breaks my heart. The thought of him walking the touchline at Ibrox again had me dreaming of those glory days, the fire, the passion, the pride he brought to the club.”
A third commented: “I can’t believe Gerrard isn’t coming back. That’s ruined my night.”
Rangers chiefs are now turning their attention elsewhere, with Danny Rohl the new frontrunner after positive talks.
SunSport understands the German boss has his backroom team ready should he get the job and will name an ex-Rangers players as one of his coaches to appease supporters.
Gerrard’s return would mark a significant appointment for the club’s American owners, but fans have now issued a message to the board over their pursuit of Gerrard.
It’s understood both Gerrard and the board have left the door open for the future.
But many fans reckons he’s had his chance and should never be interviewed again.
One fan wrote: “I wanted Gerrard but he now must be placed in the same category as McInnes and never be offered the job again.”
Another agreed: “Let’s draw a line under Gerrard and move on from any ideas of him coming back. He should never be asked again.”
Someone else said: As much as I’d love Gerrard back now, he knocked us back and we should never look back again.”
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