Andrew Cavenagh explains Stewart and Thelwell Rangers sackings

Andrew Cavenagh has sacked Patrick Stewart and Kevin Thelwell <i>(Image: Bruce White/Colorsport / Shutterstock)</i>
Andrew Cavenagh has sacked Patrick Stewart and Kevin Thelwell (Image: Bruce White/Colorsport / Shutterstock)
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Andrew Cavenagh insists Patrick Stewart and Kevin Thelwell did not 'align' with his vision for Rangers after sensationally sacking the Ibrox executives.

Stewart has been removed from his position as chief executive officer, while Thelwell leaves his berth as sporting director. Both have departed with immediate effect.

Rangers sporting director Kevin Thelwell (left) and Chief Executive Officer Patrick Stewart (right) have been sacked (Image: Andrew Milligan)

Fraser Thornton will assume the role of interim CEO while Cavenagh and Paraag Marathe, the vice-chairman, oversee the recruitment drive. The Rangers Review understands no further changes are expected at executive level at present.


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Stewart and Thelwell had come under increasing pressure from supporters in recent weeks following the disastrous Russell Martin era and amid huge questions over the execution of the summer transfer window. Banners against both men have been displayed in the stands, while there have also been chants of 'get to f***' during matches.

"Patrick Stewart and Kevin Thelwell are leaving Rangers Football Club," Cavenagh said. "Responsible change is measured and steady.

Rangers fans have been protesting for the pair's exit (Image: Jane Barlow/PA Wire)

"Our first priority has been to improve the sporting performance, and that led to our decision to part ways with Russell [Martin] and bring in Danny [Rohl]. Danny has now started the process of improving the on-pitch performance, and that has given us the chance to focus on other parts of the club. 

 "Patrick and Kev are both skilled executives and have delivered a lot for the club in their time with it. We've now had six months since we became part of Rangers to assess the club's needs as well as to get to know Patrick and Kev a bit more. Simply put, when we think about what we need in both CEO and sporting director today, it's different than who we think Patrick and Kev are. 

 "We want people that align with the vision for the next chapter. I will not throw dirt on either of them. I think very highly of them both on personal and professional levels. It's just the reality that the club needs different things today than it did six months ago.

Rangers fans in the stands hold up banners with a picture of CEO Patrick Stewart (Image: Andrew Milligan)

"We've already started the hiring process and hope to have appointments soon, but we will prioritise quality and fit over speed. I want to reassure our supporters that Danny will continue to have all the support that he needs. In the interim, Fraser Thornton, our director, will be assuming the duties as acting CEO.

"Change like this is always painful, especially when it involves people we care about. But at the same time, we're very excited about this opportunity to bring in fresh leadership to this great club. We appreciate everyone's continued support."

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