Ally McCoist struggled to understand Steven Gerrard’s decision to reject a return to Rangers, but suggested a potential reason for it.
After appearing set to take charge at Ibrox for a second time, Liverpool icon Gerrard performed a dramatic late U-turn on Saturday night as he took himself out of the running.
Gerrard will not be returning to Rangers after pulling out of talksGettyThe legendary former midfielder enjoyed a previous successful stint in Glasgow, where he won the Scottish Premiership in 2020/21, but has ruled out any further titles for the time being.
Gerrard is understood to have been doubtful that this is the correct time to take the job, despite positive talks.
He opted to walk away from the selection process for a new manager, following Russell Martin’s sacking earlier this month.
The late turnaround came as a shock to many, with a full agreement nearly being reached for Gerrard to take over the role.
How did Ally McCoist react to the Gerrard news?
Former Rangers player and manager McCoist has now shared his reaction to the latest development at Rangers, who admitted he was disappointed, but not surprised by Gerrard’s decision.
Speaking on talkSPORT Breakfast, the Gers great said: “It doesn’t surprise me. It probably disappoints me a little bit, just selfishly.
“I don’t know why he’s turned it down, I genuinely don’t.”
McCoist then alluded to a possible reason why Gerrard walked away from a return, as he factors beyond football could be at play.
It has been reported the 45-year-old is still based in Bahrain despite leaving Saudi Pro League club Al Ettifaq in January, which was reportedly influenced his decision turn down the Rangers job in the summer.
There could also be tax issues that may have delayed his return to the dugout.
Ally McCoist had a theory why Gerrard won’t be returning to Scotland Rangers are looking to replace Russell Martin, who was sacked after winning just five of his 17 competitive games in chargeGettyHaving lived in Saudi Arabia for over two years, Gerrard cannot move back to the UK at no cost.
And McCoist hinted the latter reason could have ultimately been the reason why the Premier League legend pulled out at the final hour.
He continued: “There’s rumours knocking about that he had to stay out of the country for a certain period of time, that it was going to cost him a lot of money in tax.
“I don’t know whether that’s true, but you would suggest that there’s a distinct possibility it could be the case.
“And you’re probably talking about numbers – I’m guessing here because I don’t really know.
“But if it was the case, you’re probably talking about numbers that could affect the generation of a family. So that would be something you’d have to take into consideration.
Gerrard has been out of work since leaving Al Ettifaq in JanuaryGetty“If it’s a financial decision, you lose a lot of money. As I say, I don’t know, I’m guessing.”
Currently, Rangers sit a lowly eighth in the Scottish Premiership, having won just one of their opening seven league games.
Despite this however, McCoist still believes a return would have been an attractive prospect for Gerrard, who would have been tasked with turning the tide at Ibrox.
The talkSPORT host said: “I think the actual job itself would very much appeal to him.
“I think it’s probably a good time to get the job because you would think that the new owners have got money to spend.
“I don’t think the team can get any lower – I really don’t.
Liverpool icon Gerrard boasted a 64.8 per cent win rate during his stint at Rangers between 2018 and 2021Getty“I think they’ve obviously got to start moving up the league and producing better performances, because the majority of performances haven’t been good enough.”
Who is favourite to take over at Rangers?
Following Gerrard’s withdrawal from the selection process, ex-Sheffield Wednesday manager, Danny Rohl has emerged as a leading contender to take charge of Rangers.
Rohl reportedly plans to bring a former Gers player with him to win over supporters if he gets appointed.
Hearts boss Derek McInnes has also been considered as another possible option to take the reins.
Either of the above would be well received by McCoist, who believes the club should either appoint someone who understands what it takes to be a success in Glasgow, or bring in a coach who can get the message across in the dugout.
Responding to a caller who suggested McInnes or St Mirren boss Stephen Robinson for the job, McCoist agreed, saying: “I wouldn’t disagree with that. There’s nobody in Scotland who knows the Scottish game better than Derek.
Danny Rohl has already held talks over the vacancy at RangersGetty“The job Stephen Robinson has done at St Mirren has been remarkable.
“I think the Rangers fans clearly want a good coach and a good manager in, but just as importantly, they need someone in the club that gets it.
“It doesn’t need to be the manager, but they need someone within the club that knows what it’s about. I don’t think we’ve got that.”
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