t’s a new voice in the Rangers dugout this afternoon as Steven Smith, the club’s Under-19 coach and lifelong Ranger, steps up to lead the first team against Dundee United at Ibrox (3pm kick-off).
After a whirlwind fortnight that’s seen speculation over the next permanent boss, Smith has stepped up from the academy and has been taking training sessions, preparing the team for matchday while promising a simplified, energetic approach that allows Rangers’ players to express themselves again.
The main thing for me is clarity,” Smith said in his pre-match press conference. “I’ve tried to strip it back and simplify things — remind the players they’re a good group. Words are cheap; it’s about showing it on the pitch.
Steven Smith, Under-19 coach, Rangers Football Club
Smith revealed he hadn’t expected to be in the dugout this long, admitting he initially thought he’d just take training for a couple of days before a new manager came in. But as the situation developed, his role naturally expanded — and he’s embraced the challenge with quiet confidence.
He also spoke openly about the players’ mood, acknowledging that it was “understandably low” at first, with several away on international duty. But as training continued and the focus shifted to today’s match, he’s seen an uplift in spirit and intensity. “You can sense the reality of the game now,” he said. “That’s a good thing.”
Smith’s Setup: 4-3-3 With Purpose
Rangers are expected to line up in a 4-3-3, with an emphasis on tempo and forward intent. Smith’s side is built to move the ball quickly through midfield rather than rely on the centre-backs to dictate play — a welcome shift for many fans who’ve grown frustrated watching slow, side-to-side build-up.
Here’s how the Light Blues are expected to start:
Starting XI:
GK: Jack Butland
RB: James Tavernier (captain)
CB: John Souttar
CB: Derek Cornelius
LB: Jayden Megoma
DM: Nicolas Raskin
CM: Thelo Aasgaard
CM: Joe Rothwell
RW: Oliver Antman
LW: Djeidi Gassama
FW: Bojan Miovski
The absence of Diomande through injury is a blow, but the return of Nico Raskin at the base of midfield should bring much-needed control and bite. Ahead of him, Aasgaard and Rothwell will look to provide energy and creativity, linking play into the wide areas.
Out wide, Antman and Gassama will have license to do what Rangers wingers have done best for generations — drive at defenders, hit the byline, and deliver dangerous balls for Miovski, who leads the line looking to make an instant impact.
Smith has also made it clear that while defenders will be asked to play their part in building from the back, the playmaking responsibility must come from midfield, not the centre-halves. That shift in emphasis could help the team play with more rhythm and urgency.
Smith’s Rangers Roots
A lifelong Ranger, Smith spoke with real emotion about his long association with the club, saying that seeing the current struggles “hurts,” but he remains confident things can turn quickly. “When it turns, it turns fast,” he said. “But that change has to start now.”
He also stressed the need for stability at Ibrox — not just in the first team, but across all levels of the club. “Constant turnover makes it difficult,” he admitted. “But players can only control their own performances. Focus on that, and results will follow.”
Smith senses a real determination within the squad to respond, despite recent criticism. “There’s a bit of frustration,” he said, “but there’s also a hunger to put things right. That’s what I want to see on Saturday.”
Muscat Watch
While all focus is on today’s match, the search for a permanent manager continues. Kevin Muscat remains the frontrunner, but with his side in China winning again yesterday and closing in on the Chinese Super League title, the timing of any appointment could be delayed until his season concludes.
Asked about Muscat, Smith recalled briefly crossing paths with him as a young player, describing him as “pleasant and respectful” — though he stressed his focus remains entirely on the team in front of him.
I’m here to do whatever the club asks of me. I’ve got ambition, but this weekend isn’t about me — it’s about the players.
Steven Smith, Under-19 coach, Rangers Football Club
A Message to the Fans
Smith’s words to the Rangers support struck the right tone — honest, respectful, and full of understanding.
The fans have had to suffer a lot. If any support has earned the right to vent, it’s this one. But we need to give them something back — a performance to be proud of.
Steven Smith, Under-19 coach, Rangers Football Club
That’s exactly what’s needed today: energy, intent, and pride in the badge. Smith knows results must turn quickly, and with the Ibrox crowd behind them, this could be the spark that gets the team moving again.
📍 Rangers vs Dundee United
🏩 Ibrox Stadium
🕛 3pm Kick-Off
📺 Live on RangersTV for international subscribers.
Nord VPN is a club sponsor, other VPN providers are available.
Our Prediction
Expect a hungrier Rangers side — pressing high, moving the ball quickly, and giving the Ibrox faithful something to cheer. Smith’s first game in charge could be the start of a badly needed reset.
Like & follow Ibrox Insider for more Rangers news, match reaction, and post-game analysis.
- Rangers at Rock Bottom: Röhl Faces Reality After Brann Humbling
- Kevin Thelwell defends son’s appointment – but Rangers fans aren’t buying it
- Danny Röhl Arrives at Ibrox: A New Era Begins for Rangers
- Rangers’ Fragile Mentality Exposed Again as Dundee United Snatch a Draw at Ibrox
- Steven Smith Takes the Helm: Fresh Approach, Familiar Fight as Rangers Face Dundee United
💙 Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram for updates, live reactions, and more fan coverage.
📲 Don’t forget to like and share! #Rangers #RangersFC #ScottishPremiership