Former Rangers chairman David Holmes opens up on ‘very nasty’ Ibrox exit
Former Rangers chairman David Holmes has opened up on his “very nasty” Ibrox exit a little over three decades ago.
Holmes was the man responsible for appointing Graeme Souness as manager in 1986 and subsequently turning the Gers into a real force.
The 88-year-old was forced out of the club in 1989, and did not return to Ibrox until recently as part of the launch of new book ‘One Voice’.
Discussing his return to Rangers after a long exile, Holmes is quoted by the Scottish Sun [27 November] as saying: “It’s nostalgic.
“It’s the first time I’ve been invited back in 34 years. That’s the bit that hurt. I was never invited back because when I came in I wasn’t the most popular person on the board.
“They made it very nasty, and I was pleased to move away at the time. But my affection for the supporters and their affection towards me will never be broken.”
It is fair to say a lot of water has passed under the bridge since Holmes left Ibrox some 34 years ago.
Holmes’ Ibrox tenure will be best remembered for bringing in Souness, who won seven trophies across his five-year spell as manager.
The ex-chairman was ushered out after David Murray bought a major shareholding, and it is sad he had not been back in 30-plus years until recently.
Holmes went on to add that his aim was to “clear it out and start again” while running the club, which is why he turned to former player Souness.
Even if Holmes was not able to witness to revolution up close, he can still be pleased with that decision.
The Gers have had 14 chairmen in various guises since Holmes left, with John Bennett the current incumbent.
Bennett will just be hoping the appointment of Philippe Clement can be as rewarding as Souness’ arrival all those years ago.
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