'Thank you and good luck': Michael Beale says goodbye to Rangers fans

Michael Beale has thanked Rangers supporters and urged them to get behind interim boss Steven Davis after being sacked from his position as manager.

The Englishman had his contract terminated on Sunday, a day after a 3-1 home defeat to Aberdeen saw Rangers fall seven points behind Celtic in the Premiership table after playing only seven league games.

The decision ended Beale’s time in charge at Ibrox after just ten months in the position. A former coach during Steven Gerrard’s time in charge of the club, he had replaced Giovanni van Bronckhorst as manager in November 2022.

In a statement published on Instagram, Beale thanked staff, players and fans before stating that he believed the team would turn form around after a difficult start to the season.

He said: “Thank you Rangers to everyone behind the scenes at the training ground and Ibrox, to the board, staff, fans and all the players.

“I will always follow and support the club from afar and wish you every success.

“Now is the time for everyone to unite fully behind Steven Davis and the team in the coming games.

“There is still so much to play for this season and I have a strong belief in this group of players.

“Thank you and good luck.”

Veteran midfielder Davis, who is recovering from a serious knee injury, has been asked to take charge of the team in the short term, assisted by former Rangers player Alex Rae.

The team faces Aris Limassol in Cyprus in the Europa League on Thursday, and then takes on a St Mirren side who are currently second in the league three days later before club football stops for the international break.

Rangers have said that the duo “will remain in charge for as long as it takes to make the right appointment”.