Murty will do what he can as boss hunt goes on

Rangers caretaker manager Graeme Murty has backed the board’s right to take their time over a long-term appointment.

Murty will take charge of his fourth match tonight when Rangers host St Johnstone.

The Ibrox board have been interviewing candidates to replace Mark Warburton on a long-term basis but their first appointment looks set to be for a new director of football role.

They hope to confirm that position later this week, with Southampton’s head of scouting and recruitment Ross Wilson understood to be their preferred choice.

“I think we have to respect the club’s wishes and make sure they get it right,” the club’s under-20s coach said.

“If we appoint quickly, and get it wrong, it would be much more damaging. So we have to be respectful of the board’s wishes, to go through their process, do their due diligence, and get the right person in place.”

Murty has admitted he is not enjoying being thrust into the hot seat, although he is relishing the chance to gain experience.

“It’s not about me, it’s about the football club and the players,” he added. “I’m here to facilitate the players playing well, hopefully, and making sure they know what they need to do on a match day. I’m here fulfilling the role I was asked to do.”

Skipper Lee Wallace called for quick progress in the search for a new boss after defeat by Inverness and defender Clint Hill echoed those comments yesterday.

“You need a figurehead,” said Hill. “Graeme has come into a difficult position and been outstanding for us. He’s tried to keep us going and training has been good and sharp. Unfortunately we haven’t taken that into performances. But the sooner someone comes in, the better for the club.”

Graeme Murty: Rangers must “get it right”.