Rangers fans are reacting as Aberdeen boss Derek McInnes officially leaves the Dons – making Ibrox gaffer Steven Gerrard the Scottish Premiership’s longest-serving manager.
Since Liverpool legend Gerrard came to Scotland the landscape of the nation’s game has changed completely with his 1040 days in charge the most of any top division boss.
Aberdeen boss McInnes had previously held the title having left Pittodrie two weeks before his eighth anniversary as the Dandies’ manager.
McInnes, 49, leaves Aberdeen after a string of disappointing performances this season and a run of two wins in 13 games, including a period of five games without a goal.
“During his time in charge Derek raised the bar and delivered a level of consistency not seen at the Club for many years, qualifying for Europe each season, and delivering a memorable Scottish League Cup win at Celtic Park in season 2013/14 with 43,000 Dons fans in attendance,” said Aberdeen chairman Dave Cormack [AFC].
“Clearly, results since the turn of the year have been disappointing and frustrating for everyone. Derek and I reviewed where we were and agreed that this was the right time for him to step down.
“The Club now has the opportunity to appoint a new manager ahead of the new season where, with a number of players out of contract, we have work to do to build a competitive squad.
“Derek and Tony leave with our thanks and gratitude for what they have achieved during their tenure. We wish them well for the future.”
McInnes infamously turned down the opportunity to manage Rangers before the club moved for Steven Gerrard in a decision which in hindsight, worked out massively at Ibrox.
Gerrard is now the longest-serving manager in the division whilst McInnes is sacked from one of Rangers’ biggest domestic rivals.
Many of the Ibrox faithful have reiterated their delight that ex-Rangers midfielder McInnes turned down the job as they reacted to his departure:
https://twitter.com/Geddes1989/status/1369170321752854531
https://twitter.com/RangersOnTour_/status/1369034048975368200
https://twitter.com/paulpat08884913/status/1369034511703539712
Rangers boss Gerrard can walk on water and is a legend to fans after claiming the club’s 55th league title over the weekend.
One former Rangers chairman also believes he’ll be going nowhere despite persistent links with a return back down south to Liverpool.