Rangers announce former Manchester United boss Patrick Stewart as new chief executive

Rangers have appointed former Manchester United boss Patrick Stewart as their new chief executive.

The Ibrox club, which has been searching for a replacement for James Bisgrove since his departure in May, announced on Monday that Stewart will be the man to run the club on a day-to-day basis.

Stewart spent 14 years at Old Trafford, working in a variety of off-field positions, before his departure at the end of last season.

John Bennett took on the role of executive chairman on an interim basis after James Bisgrove moved to Saudi Arabia after five years at Ibrox.

The announcement comes just six days after Rangers appointed Niels Koppen as technical director.

The Belgian joined the club in January as director of recruitment and head of scouting.

He will continue to oversee transfer strategy and will also take overall responsibility for the men’s academy, medical, football operations, performance and analysis.

The board’s latest announcement comes as pressure continues to mount on Rangers manager Philippe Clement following Saturday’s 1-1 draw with Dundee United at Ibrox.

Rangers are currently eleven points behind league leaders Celtic and eight behind second-placed Aberdeen.

Rangers interim chairman John Gilligan said: “On behalf of the board, I am delighted to welcome Patrick to the club as chief executive.

“Patrick has an excellent reputation and track record and brings with him a wealth of senior level experience from over 20 years in football.

“The board continues to engage in discussions with several excellent candidates for the role of chairman and expects to announce an appointment in the coming weeks.”

Follow STV news on WhatsApp

Scan the QR code on your mobile device to get all the latest news from around the country.