CLINT HILL reckons his chances of starting his coaching career at Rangers came to an end when Mark Warburton left Ibrox in February.

The defender penned a one-year deal with the Light Blues last summer as he made the move north of the border from Queen’s Park Rangers.

After becoming an integral part of Warburton’s side in the opening months of the campaign, he held tentative talks with the Englishman about extending his stay in Scotland.

Read more: Clint Hill reflects on his Rangers career, Old Firm goal and Ibrox exit after short but sweet spell in Light Blue

But Warburton’s departure and the arrival of Pedro Caixinha signalled the beginning of the end for stopper and he was one of a host of departures during the close season.

Hill is now playing for League Two outfit Carlisle but admits he already has one eye on the next stage of his career.

He told SportTimes: “I have done up to my A Licence and I am on a Diploma in Football Management through the League Manager’s Association and it will take about a year to complete.

“It is something I would see myself doing, for sure, but obviously it comes down to what opportunities might arise. I would definitely like to make that step if I can.

Read more: Rangers need to have second place and cup silverware in their sights this season - Clint Hill​

“Football is such a strange game that you could literally end up anywhere. I would have absolutely no problems coaching or managing anywhere if it was the right opportunity. It is just a case of waiting to see what arises.

“There was talk between myself and Mark just after January about extending it for another twelve months and seeing what happened from there.

“Unfortunately, with the circumstances that arose and the new manager wanting to do things differently, that never quite happened.

“The circumstances changed so I had to go and find something else. I would love to get into coaching or management once I am finished.”

Read more: Clint Hill confident defender Ross McCrorie is on the right track to fulfill his potential at Rangers

Hill made 32 appearances for Rangers last term as the Light Blues endured a disappointing campaign on their return to the Premiership.

But he turned down the chance to remain in the Scottish game before penning a deal with Keith Curle’s side earlier this year.

Hill said: “I had a lot of phone calls, I really did, and there were a few in Scotland that made me think and really got my attention.

“It wasn’t quite right for me and there were a few down south as well.

“I came to Carlisle because I know the manager, I have worked with him before and it just felt right to be honest with you at this stage of my career. It is only short term at the moment but we will see how it goes.”