Key Highlights
- Rangers have removed chief executive Patrick Stewart and sporting director Kevin Thelwell from their posts with immediate effect.
- The club suggests that Stewart and Thelwell do not align with their “vision for the next chapter.”
- This decision comes after a poor start to the season, leading to Russell Martin’s dismissal in October.
- Andrew Cavenagh, who has led a US-based consortium takeover of Rangers, appointed Fraser Thornton as interim chief executive.
Rangers Shake Up Leadership
Rangers Football Club have made significant changes to their senior management team, removing Patrick Stewart and Kevin Thelwell from their respective posts. The Scottish Premiership club has announced that these changes are necessary for aligning with the “vision for the next chapter.”
Background on Removals
Patrick Stewart, who took over as chairman in December 2022 after 18 years at Manchester United, was chief executive only since his arrival. Kevin Thelwell, appointed director of football in April 2023 following a three-year stint with Everton, had not yet taken up the post before leaving Everton.
Both executives were criticized by supporters during Rangers’ poor start to the season, which led to Russell Martin’s dismissal as head coach after just 17 games. Stewart arrived at Ibrox in December, while Thelwell was set to join Rangers from Everton, though his appointment was delayed due to his role with New York Red Bulls.
Takeover and Immediate Actions
The club has been subject to a takeover by an US-based consortium led by Andrew Cavenagh. As part of this transition, Cavenagh appointed Fraser Thornton as interim chief executive while searching for more permanent replacements. This move underscores the need for aligning with the new vision set forth by the new ownership.
Chairman Cavenagh stated that they have had six months to assess Rangers’ needs and get to know Stewart and Thelwell better. However, “when we think about what we need in both a CEO and sporting director today, it’s different than who we think Patrick and Kev are,” he explained.
Future Planning
Cavenagh emphasized the importance of bringing in fresh leadership to this great club. He stated, “Responsible change is measured and steady. Our first priority has been to improve the sporting performance and that led to our decision to part ways with Russell and bring in Danny Rohl.” Under Rohl’s guidance, Rangers have started improving their on-pitch performance.
Cavenagh also noted, “Patrick and Kev are both skilled executives who delivered a lot for the club.
I think very highly of them on personal and professional levels. It’s just that the club needs different things today than it did six months ago.” The chairman is optimistic about bringing in new talent that aligns with their vision for the future.
Thornton will continue to have all the support needed as the club moves forward, ensuring a smooth transition during this critical period. Rangers’ next steps involve identifying and hiring individuals who can help steer the club towards its goals under the new ownership.
Rangers remain eighth in the Scottish Premiership, 11 points behind leaders Heart of Midlothian, but have narrowed the gap domestically with Danny Rohl’s appointment.
The club faces challenges in the Europa League, having lost all four matches so far this season. Their future direction and success will be closely watched by fans and observers alike.
