Rangers’ messy search for a new manager has suffered its latest blow after talks broke down with Kevin Muscat.

The 52-year-old follows Steven Gerrard in failing to agree a deal with the Rangers hierarchy despite detailed and advanced discussions. Danny Röhl, who has admirers on the Ibrox board, ruled himself out of the running after Muscat emerged as a clear favourite. The off-field scenario at Rangers appears increasingly chaotic.

Muscat’s situation will do little to ease pressure on Rangers’ beleaguered executives, who have been subjected to protests from supporters. The Shanghai Port manager, who played briefly for Rangers, had apparently been keen on succeeding Russell Martin.

Muscat was also likely to remain in China in the short term, as his team looks to win a second title in succession. Shanghai Port’s league season will not finish until 22 November. Undeterred, Rangers started talks with Muscat last week and were confident of a positive outcome.

Rangers sacked Martin after just 123 days, two weeks ago. Despite promising an “urgent” recruitment process, Rangers have now suffered public embarrassment via Gerrard and Muscat. Steven Smith, Rangers’ under-19 coach, took charge for the 2-2 draw with Dundee United at Ibrox on Saturday.

Rangers trail the Scottish Premiership’s early pacesetters, Hearts, by 13 points having taken just nine from eight matches.

skip past newsletter promotion

Sign up to Football Daily

Kick off your evenings with the Guardian’s take on the world of football

Privacy Notice: Newsletters may contain information about charities, online ads, and content funded by outside parties. If you do not have an account, we will create a guest account for you on theguardian.com to send you this newsletter. You can complete full registration at any time. For more information about how we use your data see our Privacy Policy. We use Google reCaptcha to protect our website and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Ole Gunnar Solskjær is among the other names to be linked with Rangers, who face SK Brann in the Europa League on Thursday evening.