New Rangers boss Michael Beale’s future at the helm is by no means guaranteed, according to former Gers rival Frank McAvennie.

The Lowdown: QPR exit

Beale sat in the Rangers hot seat less than a month after reaffirming his commitment to the Queens Park Rangers faithful. 

Of course, the dreadful form with the Championship club that saw him get just two wins from eight games would have played a part, with the boss' prior links to Wolves seemingly damaging his ability to get the best out of his squad.

And whilst Beale has started well with a 3-0 friendly win against Xabi Alonso’s Bayern Leverkusen side, his first big test will begin upon the resumption of the season against Hibernian. 

The Latest: No room for error

Former Celtic man McAvennie is already sticking the knife in, claiming Beale was “going to get pushed out of QPR anyway” and that he will immediately be in danger if they lose to Hibs.

Speaking to Football Insider, the pundit said: “I think he was going to get pushed out of QPR anyway.

“If he does not win on Thursday night, let’s see how much the fans love him. He cannot fall further behind.

“They have got three games against Celtic to play. They lose another game then it could be over.

“I do not care how long his contract is – if he is not good enough they will get rid of him.“

The Verdict: Moving on...

Beale must draw a line under his time at QPR very quickly. 

If the boss was to repeat that feat of garnering just two wins from eight games, he would most certainly be out of the job.

Coming up against Ange Postecoglou’s side is a very tough ask, but Beale will know all too well the pressures that come with the Old Firm derby, having served as a member of Steven Gerrard’s back room staff during the successful stint, and a positive result could kick start a memorable campaign as they look to fight back from a nine-point deficit.