This summer, Rangers manager Philippe Clement might approve a transfer for a member of his backroom staff.
First-team coach Alex Rae has reportedly been touted as a possible replacement for Michael Beale at Sunderland, forcing Philippe Clement to rearrange his backroom staff at Rangers.
After a wild season, the EFL Championship team, now ranked 13th in the standings, fired former Gers manager Beale in February. Mike Dodds was appointed interim manager as the Black Cats looked for a long-term replacement.
Pundits have been speculating on a number of names in recent weeks due to the persistent management turmoil around the Stadium of Light, and it is thought that Rae’s affiliation with Rangers has drawn the interest of club authorities. Since leaving St. Mirren in 2016, the 54-year-old has not held a managerial position of his own, although he has played a significant role in the Gers coaching staff in recent years.
After Beale was fired from Ibrox in October, he took over as caretaker manager alongside Steven Davis, and his Belgian replacement, Clement, was eager to keep a Scot in his new-look backroom group.
Rae, who spent five years playing for Sunderland from 1996 to 2001, has a storied history both on the field and on the sidelines. Following his playing career, he ventured into management, notably taking the reins at Dundee and serving as assistant to Paul Ince at MK Dons, Blackpool, and Reading. His tenure in these roles has ensured that he remains a prominent figure in the footballing landscape, particularly in England.
The speculation surrounding Rae’s potential involvement with Sunderland’s coaching staff has gained traction, with former England international Michael Gray confirming the rumors during a discussion with Ally McCoist on talkSPORT. Reflecting on Sunderland’s recent struggles, Gray expressed disappointment with the team’s performance and highlighted the challenges they’ve faced since the departure of Tony Mowbray, who had previously won over the fans. Gray also mentioned the unsuccessful appointment of Michael Beale, suggesting that McCoist might have insight into Beale’s tenure.
“He was not the right fit; Mike Dodds is there until the end of the season; it just didn’t work out for him.” However, I can tell you that Alex Rae, who is currently employed by the Rangers, was mentioned the other day.
McCoist continued, “You’re right to say he’s in with Philippe Clement at Rangers right now; he was with Paul Ince down at Reading as well.” I agree that Sunderland has to find a new, young, energetic coach—preferably British, I believe—who might be able to take that team and make it better.