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The former Rangers boss is a leading candidate for a shock return to the Scottish giants following the announced departure of manager the former Southampton coach.

His disastrous time in charge concludes

Martin's troubled period in Glasgow ended with the manager leaving the Falkirk's ground via a side door and a pre-arranged transport after a 1-1 draw which left Rangers a significant margin from the peak of the premier division after just seven matches.

Furious supporters had encircled the Rangers team bus in Falkirk, making their feelings clear.

Club hierarchy hesitant to part with Martin

The Ibrox hierarchy had been reluctant to dismiss the former Swansea boss, who was only appointed in last month, despite loud protests from fans.

However, there was an realization that the coach's job had become impossible.

The club have managed only one win of their Premiership matches to date, which has been coupled with poor displays in European competition.

Collectively, the manager secured just five victories of 17 competitive matches, with a uninspiring, confused brand of football that won over few admirers.

“Although rebuilding phases need patience, performances have fallen short of the organization's goals,” announced a Rangers statement on the weekend.

“Assistant head coach Gill, and senior coach the coach, will also be leaving. Martin and his backroom team have given their all throughout their time at the club. We express gratitude for their efforts and wish them well for the time ahead.”

The former manager won the title with Rangers

Gerrard won the title with the Glasgow club in that campaign, their only championship since that year.

His work in Scotland before then, combined with setbacks at Aston Villa, raises questions about his leadership skills.

Yet he is greatly respected by the very set of fans the team are keen to get back on side.

The rehiring of the Liverpool icon, who most recently coached in the Saudi league, would prove hugely popular.

Gerrard will also be conscious of what limited opportunities he has to be a manager in significant leagues.

The sacking will heighten focus on Kevin Thelwell

Martin’s exit will heighten focus on Thelwell, the Rangers sporting director.

He had been strongly in favor of the coach while publicly revealing a investment of twenty million pounds in the summer window.

The ex-manager had signed a three-year contract.

His previous experience

The manager, who had previously coached the League One side and the Swans, managed Southampton to a rise to the Premier League in the previous season after being brought in the earlier window.

He was let go last December after the Southampton managed only one win of their opening 16 fixtures.

He was chosen as the former captain's next in line in last month, after the interim head coach had replaced the fired Clement in February.