Rangers identify Gerrard replacement in clearest indication of Aston Villa move

Rangers are targeting Swansea boss Russell Martin as their next manager.

And that is a clear indication they expect Steven Gerrard to accept Aston Villa 's offer to become their new manager and they have now begun their search for a successor.

The Glasgow giants have already made enquiries about former Scotland defender Martin who also had a loan spell at Rangers where the connection may have been made.

Swansea boss Martin, 35, would be a surprise choice but after Gerrard's success as a young manager who has brought trophies back to Ibrox it appears they are ready to follow the same model again.

HAVE YOUR SAY! Would Martin be a success at Rangers? Comment below

Rangers have enjoyed a resurgence under ex-Liverpool captain Gerrard which is why Villa have been so keen to get him back into English football as a replacement after they sacked for Dean Smith.

Martin also managed MK Dons and is well liked and respected at Norwich City and was linked with the post at Carrow Road before they trimmed down their list with Frank Lampard and Dean Smith leading he hunt.

But Martin, the former Norwich, Wycombe and Peterborough defender, is quickly establishing himself as one of the most promising young bosses in the game.

Martin was quickly poached by Swansea after impressing at MK Dons with his style of play and results.

He has made a solid start at Swansea and they are now just three points off the play-offs and he has done that on a budget.

Rangers have already made discreet enquiries as they look to find a quick replacement for Villa-bound Gerrard.

Martin has prided himself on his style of football, following in the Swansea style of Roberto Martinez, Brendan Rodgers and Michael Laudrup which is an attractive reason.

But his early promise as a young manager is catching the eye of several big clubs already, including Rangers.