Bookies odds slashed as former Newcastle boss becomes sudden favourite for surprise job

Steve Bruce has put his name forward for the vacant Rangers job and emerged as the bookies favourite to become the new Gillingham manager.

This comes from Football Scotland, who claim the former Toon boss is eager to take over at Ibrox – despite previously stating he wouldn’t manage again after his spell at St James’ Park.

Following Michael Beale’s departure, it’s thought Kevin Muscat and Frank Lampard are the current favourites for the job, making it ‘unlikely’ that Bruce gets the job in Scotland. However, another opportunity may have opened up for the 62-year-old.

Out of nowhere, Bruce has become the bookies 5/4 favourite to take charge at Gillingham; the League Two side he made over 200 appearances for during his playing days.

After parting company with Neil Harris earlier this month, the Gills are on the lookout for a new manager and are being tipped to appoint the former Man Utd centre-back.

Bruce started his managerial career with Sheffield United before going on to manage Huddersfield Town, Wigan Athletic, Crystal Palace, Birmingham City, Sunderland, Hull City, Aston Villa, Sheffield Wednesday, Newcastle and West Brom; who sacked him last October after dropping to 22nd in the Championship.