Rangers have confirmed that former Ibrox defender Steven Smith will remain part of the club’s first-team coaching staff for the remainder of the season, continuing his work alongside head coach Danny Rohl.
The 40-year-old joined Rohl’s backroom team in October following the German’s appointment as Rangers boss, initially on an interim basis. After impressing both on and off the training pitch, Smith has now been retained as a permanent member of the first-team setup.
Smith’s connection to Rangers runs deep. A product of the club’s academy, he made his first-team debut in 2004 and went on to enjoy two spells at Ibrox, scoring five goals in 110 appearances.
During his first stint, he played a key role in a successful period for the club, winning three Scottish Premiership titles and a League Cup before departing for Norwich City in 2010.
He returned to Rangers in 2013 during the club’s time in League One under Ally McCoist, helping the team secure the League One title before moving on to Kilmarnock in 2015.
His playing career, shaped by both top-flight success and the club’s journey through the lower leagues, gives him a unique perspective on what it means to represent Rangers.
Smith’s coaching involvement began earlier this season when he stepped in as interim head coach for the home draw with Dundee United following Russell Martin’s departure.
His calm leadership during that transitional period was well received, and he remained with Rohl’s staff as the club sought someone with both knowledge of Rangers and an understanding of the Scottish game.
Rohl has since made it clear that Smith’s impact earned him a longer-term role.
“I am delighted to confirm Stevie as part of my coaching team,” Rohl said.
“He has impressed me with his ability on and off the training pitch, the way he works with the players and staff, as well as his experience.
“I said it was important to have someone who knows the club and Steven has that. He has played here and brings that knowledge of this unique club to our coaching team.”
Smith now forms part of a diverse and modern backroom team that includes Sascha Lense as men’s first-team performance manager, Matthias Kaltenbach as assistant coach, Sal Bibbo as goalkeeping coach, Scott Fry as set-piece coach, Rhys Owen as performance coach, and Tristan Steiner as sports analyst.
The blend of continental expertise and Rangers-specific knowledge is central to Rohl’s vision for the club.
Beyond matchday preparation, Smith’s role also extends to player development. He has stressed the importance of balancing immediate results with long-term growth, particularly at a club with Rangers’ expectations.
“It always has to be a balance between development and results,” Smith explained.
“You have to win in the right way. At first-team level that’s what it’s about. But we also need to develop them as footballers, to take the ball under pressure and handle different situations.”
That philosophy aligns closely with Rangers wider strategy of integrating young talent into a competitive first-team environment while maintaining high performance standards.
For supporters, Smith’s continued presence offers reassurance and continuity. Few figures understand the demands, pressures and culture of Rangers as well as someone who has experienced both the highs of title success and the challenges of the club’s rebuilding years.
As Rohl continues to shape his Rangers side, Smith’s experience, connection to the club, and commitment to developing players the “right way” could prove invaluable in the months ahead.
Smith’s former assistant coach, Liam Ross, will remain in charge of the clubs under 19’s for the remainder of the season.