GRAEME SOUNESS has recalled a recent conversation with Steven Gerrard which appears to offer Rangers fans a clue over a possible return to Ibrox.

The former England international was sacked by Aston Villa in October after a difficult start to the Premier League season.

And ever since - with pressure building on Giovanni van Bronckhorst - there has been speculation over an Ibrox return.

Now, after Van Bronckhorst was sacked by Ibrox chiefs today, rumours persist over a possible return for Gerrard.

But Souness' recent discussion with Gerrard appears to suggest it's not on the cards.

The talkSPORT pundit revealed Gerrard is keen to return to management in the future but is set for a break before heading back into the dugout.

And Souness went on to insist he does not see a Rangers return in the future for Gerrard because of the reaction to his departure for Aston Villa.

Speaking on talkSPORT, Souness explained: "I saw Steven a couple of weeks ago in Portugal, and he seemed to be in fine form.

"I said are you wanting to go back (to management) and he said 'yeah I'll give it a bit of time and I'll go back'. If something comes along that is interesting to him.

"I don't see him going back to Glasgow Rangers.

"Would the supporters be happy with him going back? I'm not sure.

"I think they think they left them at a difficult time, so I'm not sure."

Gerrard had led Rangers to the Scottish Premiership title in the 2020/21 season to deny Celtic a tenth consecutive league crown.

However, in the following campaign, Gerrard walked out at Rangers to take up a role at Villa Park with Van Bronckhorst appointed his successor in November.

Rangers are now on the lookout for their next manager with Van Bronckhorst relieved of his duties today. 

The Dutchman was sacked with results and performances in recent months deemed unacceptable.

A club statement confirmed: "Rangers Football Club confirms today it has parted company with manager Giovanni van Bronckhorst. The board would like to put on record sincere thanks to Gio for all his efforts since his appointment as manager.

"Arriving at the club just over a year ago, Gio led the club to a fifth European final and won the Scottish Cup last May. He also led the team to the club’s first Champions League qualification in 12 years.

"Unfortunately, results and performances over recent months haven’t met expectations and the decision was made today by the board to terminate the contract of the manager.

"The search for the new manager is now underway."

READ MORE: