Derek McInnes has been appointed as Rangers' new manager, leaving Premiership rivals Hearts to take the reins at Ibrox. The 54-year-old replaces Danny Rohl, who made a shock switch to Red Bull Salzburg.
Quick Move by Rangers
Ibrox supremo Andrew Cavenagh moved swiftly to secure McInnes as Rohl's successor. A deal had been in place with Hearts and their former boss for approximately a week. Assistants Paul Sheerin and Alan Archibald are expected to join him at Ibrox from Tynecastle once an agreement is reached with the pair.
Three-Year Contract
McInnes has signed a three-year contract, as Rangers adopt a Scottish-first policy following another late-season collapse—partly inflicted by McInnes—that saw them fall completely out of the title race. This appointment sees the former Gers midfielder finally take charge in Govan almost a decade after first being approached.
Then chairman Dave King attempted to lure McInnes from Aberdeen, but he opted to remain at Pittodrie after taking advice from the late Walter Smith. However, he did not pass up a second opportunity after coming within three minutes of winning the Premiership title with Hearts.
McInnes' Demands
McInnes stated: “It is a real honour to become the manager of Rangers Football Club. It is no secret that I grew up a Rangers supporter, and I am convinced this is the right time to take on this prestigious role given the club’s structure, and leadership from Andrew, the Board, and Jim. The demands here are clear, and our supporters rightfully have high expectations. It is up to me, my staff and my players to meet those expectations, and have this club performing as it should. There is a lot of hard work ahead, but already the preparations have begun, and I am looking forward to meeting the current squad in the coming weeks and welcoming some new faces.”
Chairman's Praise
Chairman Cavenagh added: “I am delighted to welcome Derek to Rangers. He is someone we have always rated highly, and we believe he is exactly what this club needs at this moment in time. His deep Scottish and Rangers experience are important for us. He knows how to win in this league, and he is coming off an extremely strong season with Hearts.”
