Derek McInnes is finding out pretty quickly the stresses and strains of possessing the managerial reins of Scottish footballing powerhouse Rangers.
The former Hearts boss only oversaw his first competitive game in charge a couple of weeks ago but already finds himself facing the wrath of the club's supporters following a disastrous start to the new campaign.
Rangers already find themselves five points adrift of fierce rivals Celtic in the Scottish Premiership after picking up just a solitary point from their opening two league fixtures, whilst they have also been shockingly dumped out of the Europa League at the qualifying stage.
A 2-1 defeat at the hands of Polish side Jagiellonia Białystok in the first-leg was followed-up by a disappointing 1-1 draw on home soil, culminating in supporters venting their frustrations at the new man in charge at the final whistle.
Whilst it's understood the 55-year-old's job isn't under imminent threat, the very fact that he has failed to win any of his first four matches in charge suggests the knives are already being sharpened in the Scottish capital.
Even the much-maligned Russell Martin won a couple of his first quartet of games, as did their most recent boss Danny Rohl, who found himself under early pressure in the infancy of his maiden campaign in the hot-seat too.
McInnes will be fully aware of the importance of addressing the situation in the coming weeks, starting against St. Mirren in the Scottish League Cup this weekend.
However, should the Buddies produce an upset at Ibrox on Sunday, then it would come as no surprise to see the Rangers powers that be pull the plug on McInnes and seek the appointment of another permanent manager.
We take a look at a handful of names who could be in the mix should another change be made...
Next Rangers manager contenders
Steven Gerrard
A man who understands the expectations at Ibrox as well as anybody, Steven Gerrard's name would likely be at the top of the betting should McInnes depart.
The former England and Liverpool great was hugely popular with Rangers supporters during his previous reign there between 2018 and 2021, winning 125 of his 193 matches in charge.
In times of difficulties, both on and off the field for the Scottish giants, Gerrard led them to their 55th league crown in 2021; their first top-flight triumph in a decade and also their most recent.
Sean Dyche
Sean Dyche may not be at the top of too many fans immediate wishlists, but his footballing IQ and know-how could go a long way to helping turn the tide north of the border.
The former Burnley boss has been linked with numerous jobs since departing Nottingham Forest last season, but remains on the sidelines, biding his time as he seeks his next opportunity.
The 55-year-old is a proven fire-fighter, he played a key role in addressing Everton's downfall upon his appointment in 2023 and did likewise at Forest shortly after, despite Evangelos Marinakis' decision to pull the trigger on him after just 25 games in the City Ground hotseat.
He could be perfect to help ensure a relatively quick-fix should McInnes continue to struggle with his acclimatisation to the high-profile Rangers role.
Kjetil Knutsen
How about a potential move for Bodo/Glimt boss Kjetil Knutsen?
Old Firm rivals Celtic were heavily linked with the hugely successful Norwegian when they were looking for a long-term successor to Martin O'Neill, and whilst a deal never materialised, it wouldn't be a surprise to see Rangers try their luck.
Under Knutsen's guidance, Bodo/Glimt have captured four Eliteserien titles and punched well above their weight on the continent too -- famously reaching the last 16 of the UEFA Champions League last season.
The 57-year-old has claimed on a number of occasions that he has unfinished business to attend to with his current employers, but given his rapidly growing reputation and pedigree, he will surely have his head turned by a higher profile opportunity sooner rather than later.
Barry Ferguson
Few people in professional football are as synoymous with Rangers like Barry Ferguson.
The Scottish icon served the club with distinction across two stellar periods, notching up almost 450 appearances across 13 campaigns and picking up 15 major titles including five Scottish Premiership crowns.
Whilst he may not possess the same experience as others who would be tempted by the potential role, his unquestionable affiliation with the club and its supporters would undoubtedly stand him in good stead.
The 48-year-old oversaw a brief interim spell in charge at the tail end of the 2024/25 campaign and many had expected him to have been handed the role on a permanent basis, only for Russell Martin to be appointed instead.
Ferguson has previously spoken of the pain he felt after being overlooked for the role last summer, but don't rule him out from throwing his name into the hat for a second time should the chance arise.
