Some clubs are obsessed with a style of play whereas Rangers has always, historically, just been about winning. Walter Smith was a master of this, to coin a modern-day phrase – a mentality monster.
Times change though, and it is no longer enough just to win games. Giovanni van Bronckhorst had the best domestic win rate of any Gers manager until the last three games, and yet, fans were wanting him chased.
So, if the Dutchman is relieved of his duties, do we need to look at a coach who can provide a more aggressive and front-foot style of play, one that we have seen our city neighbours use to good effect against domestic opposition, even if on the continent they have been found wanting?
One man who could be an option and has been touted for a return to Ibrox is an unlikely former Rangers – Kevin Muscat.
Coincidentally, the Aussie was Ange Postecoglu’s replacement in Japan and has taken his team to even higher heights, playing an equally as attacking style of football.
Speaking on recent speculation surrounding his future, Muscat said, as reported by The Daily Record:
“Throughout the year, there was a couple of opportunities but I didn’t really entertain them. We love it in Japan.
“Until something else comes up that interests me, I’m just going to focus on the present – if you do that, the future will look after itself, but if you’re focusing on the future, you’ll mess up what’s in front of you.
“But [my phone] has been busier than usual, put it that way.”
The fact that he played for Rangers is neither here nor there but it is a consideration. He ticks two big boxes; he is a winner as a manager and, he has a proactive philosophy.
So far, early favourites to replace Gio are Sean Dyche who is admired for his no-nonsense approach, and Ralph Hasenhuttl who is desired for his attacking play.
Why not have both?