Rangers have been handed a boost ahead of their Europa League meeting with Royal Antwerp after the Belgian side allowed manager Ivan Leko to join Chinese outfit Shanghai SIPG.
The 42-year-old former Croatia international has switched the Pro League side for a big money move to the Chinese Super League, where he will take charge of a star-studded line up.
Brazilian internationals Hulk and Oscar, once of Chelsea, former West Ham striker Marko Arnautovic and ex-St Mirren midfielder Aaron Mooy are among the most notable names contracted to the side.
However they could only end the 2020 Super League season in fourth place, a finish that cost Portuguese coach Vitor Pereira his job, with Antwerp confirming Leko and assistant Edward Still would be taking over with immediate effect.
It means the Belgian side, who sit fifth in the Pro League table, are without a coach ahead of their last 32 tie with Rangers in February.
Antwerp finished second behind Tottenham Hotspur in their Europa League group, edging out Jose Mourinho's side 1-0 at the Bosuilstadion in October.
A statement on the club's website read: “Antwerp coach Ivan Leko has confirmed that he will end his current contract with immediate effect.
“Almost two weeks ago the club was informed of interest in Ivan Leko by the Chinese club SIPG - and today we received an official letter that the coach is terminating his contract and leaving The Great Old immediately.
“The club regrets that Ivan Leko terminates his contract prematurely, but wishes him every success in his further career. The club is now taking the time to appoint a new head coach.
“Communication will not take place until that appointment has been ratified.”
