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The Anfield icon is a leading candidate for a dramatic comeback to Ibrox following the official dismissal of manager the former Southampton coach.

His ill-fated spell at Rangers comes to a close

Martin's ill-fated Ibrox tenure concluded with the manager departing the Falkirk Stadium via a side door and a pre-arranged transport after a level finish which left the Ibrox club 11 points from the summit of Scotland’s top flight after just seven fixtures.

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

Club hierarchy unwilling to let go of Martin

The Ibrox hierarchy had been unwilling to let go of Martin, who was only appointed in last month, despite loud objections from fans.

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

Rangers have secured just a single victory of their top-flight games to date, which has been combined with disappointing showings on the continental stage.

Collectively, Martin secured just five victories of 17 official games, with a uninspiring, muddled style of play that won over few admirers.

“Although rebuilding phases need patience, performances have fallen short of the team's standards,” announced a official communication on the weekend.

“Number two the assistant, and senior coach Williamson, will also be leaving. Martin and his staff have worked exceptionally hard throughout their tenure. We express gratitude for their dedication and hope for the best for the future.”

Gerrard won the title with the team

The Liverpool legend secured the championship with the Glasgow club in 2020-21, their only championship since that year.

His work in Scotland before then, combined with struggles at Villa, creates uncertainty about his managerial capabilities.

Yet he is held in high esteem by the very group of supporters the team desperately need back on side.

The reappointment of the former Reds star, who last managed in the Saudi league, would be widely welcomed.

The manager will also be aware of what limited opportunities he has to be a head coach in major divisions.

Martin’s exit will increase pressure on Thelwell

Martin’s exit will increase pressure on Kevin Thelwell, the club's recruitment chief.

He had been strongly in favor of the coach while publicly revealing a net spend of twenty million pounds in the off-season.

Martin had agreed to a three-year contract.

Martin's previous experience

The coach, who had previously been in charge the Dons and the Swans, led Southampton to a rise to the Premier League in the previous season after being appointed the previous summer.

He was dismissed last the end of the year after the Southampton won only one of their initial 16 matches.

He was appointed Barry Ferguson’s replacement in last month, after the caretaker boss had taken over from the sacked Clement in the earlier part of the year.