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The Anfield icon is under serious review for a shock return to Rangers following the announced departure of manager Russell Martin.

Martin's ill-fated Ibrox tenure ends

His troubled Ibrox tenure ended with the gaffer leaving the Falkirk's ground via a side door and a pre-arranged transport after a share of the points which left the Glasgow side 11 points from the top of Scotland’s top flight after just seven games.

Angry fans had gathered around the squad transport in the stadium location, making their feelings clear.

Rangers board unwilling to part with the manager

The Ibrox hierarchy had been unwilling to let go of the coach, who was only brought in in the summer, despite loud protests from supporters.

However, there was an understanding that the manager's position had become impossible.

The club have managed only one win of their league fixtures to date, which has been combined with disappointing performances in Europe.

In total, the manager secured just five victories of 17 fixtures, with a lackluster, confused footballing philosophy that gained little support.

“While all transition periods need patience, results have not met the organization's goals,” announced a club announcement on Sunday evening.

“Assistant head coach the assistant, and first-team staff member Williamson, will also be departing. Russell and his backroom team have given their all throughout their time at the club. We express gratitude for their efforts and hope for the best for the future.”

The former manager claimed the league with Rangers

The Liverpool legend secured the championship with the Ibrox side in that campaign, their lone triumph since 2011.

His performance in Glasgow before then, combined with struggles at Aston Villa, raises questions about his managerial capabilities.

Yet he is held in high esteem by the very set of fans the club urgently require back on side.

The return of the Liverpool icon, who most recently coached in the Saudi league, would prove hugely popular.

The coach will also be conscious of what scarce chances he has to be a gaffer in major divisions.

Martin’s exit will heighten focus on Thelwell

The manager's departure will heighten focus on Thelwell, the club's recruitment chief.

He had been hugely supportive of the gaffer while publicly revealing a transfer outlay of a significant sum in the off-season.

The ex-manager had signed a multi-year agreement.

His earlier positions

The coach, who had previously coached the Dons and the Welsh club, managed the south coast club to a rise to the English football's elite in the previous season after being brought in the earlier window.

He was dismissed last the end of the year after the Saints managed only one win of their initial 16 matches.

He was chosen as the former captain's next in line in the summer, after the temporary manager had succeeded the fired Clement in February.