Kevin Muscat has now pulled out of the Rangers race after confirming he intends to stay in Japan and lead Marinos to the title this season.
Following reported discussions between himself and the Rangers hierarchy, the former Ibrox man announced his intention to remain in Japan this calendar year at the very least, pretty much officially ruling himself out of the race to become Rangers manager.
He said:
“During the week, we had 61 supporters who travelled to Jinan in China to see us play in the AFC Champions League against Shandong Taishan. I was truly moved by the fact that these fans travelled that distance just to support us.”
Fair enough, but it’s what he said next that rules him out:
“The support was truly amazing and the best possible. Of course, we will have a lot more fans at the semi-final against Urawa Reds. The fans here have been brilliant to me and the team and I vow to deliver another title for them.”
That’s that then. The J-League season doesn’t end till basically December and that means Muscat is no longer a contender for the job, because we’re not appointing an interim to keep the seat warm for 8+ weeks.
This basically leaves the coast pretty much clear for Philippe Clement if a deal can be struck.
We’ll monitor this with great interest.