Former Scotland striker John Spencer believes Rangers have appointed the right man to restore the club to the top of Scottish football after Derek McInnes was unveiled as the new manager at Ibrox.

Speaking on the latest SNN Sports Football Podcast, host Scott Bradley was joined by former Chelsea, Rangers and Scotland forward John Spencer, alongside former professional footballer David Caldwell, who enjoyed a career with Mansfield Town, Chesterfield, Torquay United and Belgian side KVV Overpelt before moving into coaching and football analysis.

The trio discussed McInnes’ appointment, Rangers’ ambitions under new ownership and the expectations awaiting the former Hearts boss.

“McInnes ticks every box”

Spencer believes Rangers have finally appointed a manager who understands exactly what is required to succeed at Ibrox.

“I think McInnes ticks a lot of boxes for Rangers,” Spencer said.

“He’s a Rangers man, a former player, understands Scottish football inside out and knows exactly what the supporters expect. I think it’s a fantastic appointment.”

The former Scotland international also praised McInnes’ first press conference, believing the new manager struck the right tone.

“He wasn’t making huge promises or saying things just to please people. He spoke well and understands the size of the job. Rangers fans will appreciate that.”

Caldwell draws on experience working alongside McInnes

Caldwell offered a unique insight into McInnes after previously working alongside him during his spell at Aberdeen, where he assisted with opposition analysis.

“I’ve worked with Derek and everybody speaks very highly of him,” Caldwell explained.

“I think he’ll do well at Rangers. Football changes quickly and ultimately managers are judged by results, but I believe he’s earned this opportunity.”

Having spent more than a decade playing professionally in England and Scotland, Caldwell believes this represents the defining challenge of McInnes’ managerial career.

“He’s had experience at several clubs and now he’s got one of the biggest jobs in Scottish football. At Rangers you’re expected to win trophies. That’s the reality.”

Why Hearts allowed him to leave

One of the biggest talking points surrounding McInnes’ appointment was how quickly Hearts allowed the move to happen.

While many supporters were surprised the Edinburgh club didn’t put up more resistance, Caldwell believes Hearts’ long-term football strategy may have played a role.

“I think Hearts are moving towards a different football philosophy,” he said.

“They’ve invested heavily in recruitment and data-led decision making. Derek has his own style of football, so perhaps both sides felt the timing was right.”

Success won’t be measured by second place

Both Spencer and Caldwell agreed that Rangers supporters will only judge McInnes on one thing—silverware.

“At Rangers it’s about winning trophies,” Spencer said.

“It’s not about finishing second and saying you’ve had a decent season. Derek understands that because he’s lived it.”

Caldwell echoed those sentiments, pointing out how little time modern managers are given to build a team.

“Managers don’t get years anymore. They need results quickly. Derek knows the expectations and he’ll have to implement his ideas straight away.”

Recruitment key to Rangers’ future

The panel also discussed Rangers’ summer transfer plans, with speculation already linking the club to several Scottish Premiership players.

While Spencer believes bringing in players who understand the league could help, Caldwell warned that quality must remain the priority.

“It doesn’t matter whether players come from Scotland or abroad,” Caldwell said.

“You need quality footballers who fit the manager’s system and the culture of the football club.”

Drawing on his own experience, Caldwell reflected on the Rangers sides of previous generations.

“When I played against Rangers they had outstanding Scottish players mixed with top international footballers. That’s the standard Rangers have to get back to if they want sustained success.”

A defining opportunity

McInnes has waited years for another opportunity to manage Rangers after previously being linked with the role.

Now, he finally gets his chance.

With a major squad rebuild expected this summer and pressure to challenge Celtic immediately, both Spencer and Caldwell believe Rangers have appointed a manager capable of handling the responsibility.

Whether that belief translates into trophies will ultimately determine how successful the McInnes era becomes.

Watch the full discussion

The full conversation featuring Scott Bradley, John Spencer and David Caldwell is available now on the SNN Sports Football Podcast, where the panel also discuss Scotland’s World Cup campaign, Steve Clarke’s future, the Messi vs Ronaldo debate and their favourites to lift the World Cup.