The managers in place, there’s money available and players to sign up. 14 in fact are without a contract for next season and already rival clubs are showing an interest in what maybe on offer if Rangers fail to act quickly to sign up the talented.
Marc Bircham is the most sought after player at the moment of writing. He has held talks and has received serious interest from Sheffield United, Cardiff, Ipswich, Coventry and Wolves. Bircham’s made no secret of his wish to stay at Rangers but as he says "he has to see what else is on offer as there maybe no new deal for him". In reality it is extremely unlikely that Ollie will see him as surplus to requirements and is more likely to see Bircham as the key to build his midfield around.
Now Holloway’s deal has been confirmed he can now get down to the nitty-gritty of signing players up. In the coming weeks he will be sitting down with players, especially Bircham in the hope of tying them up to the club for a couple of years.
Clarke Carlisle is another who has received interest. Again Sheffield United have expressed an interest and Leeds are also watching developments.
Former assistant manager Kenny Jackett, now in charge at Swansea has tried to raid his old club for some of the riches. He has told the press of his wishes to sign Paul Furlong and Steve Palmer to the Vetch. Furlong looks certain to reject the Welsh club in favour of staying in West London, if and when a new deal is put on the table for the 36-year old. Palmer however is the more likely to join the Swans. Palmer has said of his desire to continue playing for a year or two more before going into coaching. A spot alongside Holloway as his assistant manager has been talked about but there would be no place for a playing contract which is likely to put him off the position leaving Swansea’s interest more attractive.
As for the others, Matt Rose, Richard Edghill and Richard Johnson amongst others are yet to be talked about by possible clubs targeting new signings. We will learn in the coming weeks who is to remain on the pay roll at Loftus Road and who will be forced to find a new club. Whatever happens Holloway has his hands full with players he has to make his mind up with.