Steven Gerrard’s England link was a big talking point over the last 24 hours, but would he be a success with the Three Lions?
In a word – yes. In more words, yes but not anytime soon.
A report from the Sun spoke about how the FA are considering the Rangers manager for the top job in two years’ time. This is mainly because of a fear that Gareth Southgate is about to quit the role after Euro 2020.
Where that feeling has come from, who knows? But Gerrard would have big competition in Sean Dyche, who’s something of a media darling down south.
Yet, if the FA did go for Gerrard in two years’ time, it just wouldn’t work out. Sure, the England players would have a big name to look up to. A legendary one in fact.
But then again, even in two years’ time, the Rangers manager’s experience in the managerial game would be limited. Given time to hone his craft and put his wits against better managers in the future will help him.
People will point to Southgate and say that he also lacked experience when he took the England job. That’s only partly true, however.
It’s important to remember that as well as Southgate’s three-year Middlesbrough association, he also managed he England under-21s for three years. The Englishman never achieved much as a manager before fortunately getting the caretaker role with the senior side. The main thing was, however, that he had experience in the game.
Experience required
Gerrard vitally needs this before having any thought of tackling international football.
Already in his short managerial tenure, the Rangers manager has impressed just about every single spectator. He’s in Europe in his first year in management. He’s managed to stop another hammering against Celtic. Things are looking good for him even this early.
Unless, however, Gerrard continues to gather more experience of different situations, he has to stay clear of what’s still a poisoned chalice.
If he performs and continues to grow his managerial reputation, the world is at his feet. Clubs around the world, and even international sides, will be queuing up to offer him roles.
He needs to lay something long-term at Rangers first and foremost. He’s achieved Europe, but Gers fans want the title. Until he starts establishing the Ibrox side as the top dogs in Scotland once more and adds more strings to his bow, thoughts of something bigger must be curtailed.
