Scottish football giants Rangers have dismissed chief executive Patrick Stewart and sporting director Kevin Thelwell, the club announced on Monday, stating that the pair did not align with their “vision for the next chapter.”

Both officials faced criticism from fans following a poor start to the season, which culminated in manager Russell Martin’s sacking in October after just one victory in his first seven league games in charge.

Former Manchester United chief executive Stewart joined Ibrox only in December, while Thelwell’s appointment was announced in April. However, he assumed the role after leaving Everton at the end of last season.

Since being taken over by a US-based consortium led by Andrew Cavenagh, Rangers have appointed director Fraser Thornton as interim chief executive while searching for permanent replacements.

Under new manager Danny Rohl, Rangers have won four consecutive league matches but remain nine points behind Scottish Premiership leaders Hearts.