Kevin Muscat lieutenant reveals future plans amid Rangers next manager clamour as he toasts Aussie history maker

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Shanghai Port boss Kevin Muscat's assistant Vincenzo Ierardo has dropped a major clue over the future of the boss amid speculation over a move to Rangers.

The Australian missed out on the Ibrox hot seat last year after Michael Beale was shown the door and held talks with the Scottish Premiership giants after winning the J-League in 2022 and finishing second in 2023 Yokohama F. Marinos. However, the club opted to go for Philippe Clement - who is now facing major questions over his future going into the Premier Sports Cup semi-final with Motherwell on Sunday.

While Clement and Rangers are nine points off the top of the table, it has been a very different story for Muscat. He has led his Shanghai side to the Chinese Super League title with a thumping 5-0 win over Tianjin Jinmen as they saw off Shanghai Shenua on the final day of the season.

That has only seen the clamour from the Gers' support for Muscat to be sent an SOS to replace Clement in the dugout. But in a post on X, Ierardo has hinted that the focus on the boss remains in Shanghai.

In the wake of title glory, he wrote: "Excited to share that we’ve won the Chinese Super League 2024! It’s been an incredible journey, especially to achieve this alongside three fellow Australians. A special thank you to Kevin Muscat for bringing me on this adventure.

"Your leadership and commitment to driving standards and culture have pushed me to new heights. To Ross Aloisi, I’m grateful for your unwavering support and for always motivating me to be my best self. And to Greg King, who has become a close friend, it’s been a pleasure working alongside you so far this season your expertise is truly inspiring.

"Thank you Shanghai Port for this amazing opportunity. Here’s to continuing our pursuit of success! Last but not least, my family. Thank you to my wife & kids allowing me to pursue this dream. It’s been difficult year & can’t wait to see you all."

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